Description
Craving a comforting, hearty, and healthy meal? This Olive Garden Minestrone copycat recipe is exactly what you need! It’s a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, hearty beans, tender pasta, and aromatic Italian herbs simmered in a savory tomato-based broth. Whether you’re searching for a quick dinner, easy recipe, healthy snack, or cozy food ideas for meal prep, this classic minestrone will quickly become your favorite. Packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition, it’s a go-to breakfast idea turned hearty lunch or dinner staple that’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and unbelievably satisfying. Each spoonful offers warmth, nourishment, and the essence of traditional Italian comfort food—making it irresistible any time of year!
Ingredients
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 cup water (optional, for adjusting consistency)
- 1 cup small shell pasta or ditalini
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened (5–7 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic; cook until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
- Add zucchini, diced tomatoes (with juice), and seasonings (oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes).
- Pour in vegetable broth and water; bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add drained kidney beans, garbanzo beans, and pasta; cook until pasta is al dente (8–10 minutes).
- Stir in chopped spinach or kale; cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and optional Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes