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Olive Garden Minestrone Soup

A hearty and comforting soup filled with vibrant vegetables and savory flavors, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

Vegetables and Broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrots
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup zucchini, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup spinach
Pasta and Toppings
  • 1/2 cup macaroni pasta
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and diced zucchini. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
  3. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the rinsed kidney beans. Stir well to combine.
  4. Gradually add the vegetable broth, and then sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  6. Stir in the spinach and macaroni pasta during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Make sure the pasta is cooked al dente.
  7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

Feel free to switch out the zucchini for other veggies like bell peppers or green beans for variety. This soup can be made heartier by adding cooked chicken or chickpeas. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to three months.