The Best Minestrone Soup Recipe (Olive Garden Copycat)

You have come to the right place if you are looking for The Best Minestrone Soup Recipe. It's easy, packed with veggies, and full of flavor. This is perfect for cold weather days.

I loved the minestrone at Olive Garden before becoming vegan. It was a huge win to find out that I could still grab a bowl of minestrone soup at Olive Garden after becoming vegan. It's even better to be able make the copycat version of Olive Garden's minestrone soup using .

It's nice to go out for food but cooking it yourself is more tasty, cheaper and healthier.

The soup is Italian in origin. Olive Garden's copycat recipe may not be the same as Italian versions but there are many similarities. This is true in particular because there are so many variations and history of minestrone. There is also no standard recipe.

It is usually made with beans and other vegetables like celery, onions, carrots, greens, tomatoes and stock. This is a recipe that can be adapted to what you already have in the fridge.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and never miss another post again! Subscribe to our weekly newsletter for easy delivery! Get 15 quick and easy recipes right away!
Subscribe to my newsletter today!

Why you'll love this recipe

Recipe Ingredients

Gather your ingredients

• VegetablesThe base of our soup is the celery, onions, carrots, and garlic. They are also the aromatics. The vegetables add flavor and nutrients to the soup. Zucchini can be added to the soup for additional vegetables or as a component in the copycat version.
• Beans (HTML0) - We are using great northern and kidney beans in this dish so that it is similar to the Olive Garden version
• Leafy Greens The Olive Garden version contains kale, but we use spinach. Either way works!
• Small shells is what we use and what's included in the copycat version.
• TomatoesMinestrone has a tomato base broth so we use both tomato paste and canned tomatoes for the depth of flavor we want to add to this soup.
• Brewers yeast -the Olive Garden's version had a fermented/yeasty taste when we compared them side by side. Brewers yeast is added to get the same flavor. You can add this to your taste.
• Lemon Juicenotifies you of the other ingredients and helps to balance them.

Below is a recipe card with a list of all the ingredients and their measurements.

Substitutions & Variations:

• VegetablesYou cannot go wrong by adding more vegetables, and also changing it up. Snap beans, Green Beans (including Butternut), Peas and Mushrooms are all great additions to this dish.
• BeansYou may mix and match beans or chickpeas to your liking!
• Leafy Greens Spinach or kale will work well in this recipe.
• Pasta (HTML0) - You want to make sure the pasta is small. However, any type of pasta will do.

How to make the best minestrone soup recipe:

Step 1. Add the oil to a large pot on medium heat. Once the oil is heated, add the celery, zucchini, onions and carrots. Sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, or until vegetables are soft. Stir in the garlic and continue to cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Add seasonings, and cook for 30 seconds. Add tomato paste, water, vegetable broth and tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3 : Add the kidney beans, white beans and pasta. Allow the pasta to cook for 12-15 minutes.

Step 5:Add the greens, lemon juice and salt (to taste), and cook until wilted and softened (about 4 minutes). Add more seasoning if desired. Remove from heat, and top with vegan parmesan and fresh parsley.

FAQs about Recipes:

Consider Other Vegan Soup Recipes:

Have you tried and loved this recipe?
Click on the 5 stars above in the recipe card or below in our comment section. It's a great way for you to help us continue to provide great recipes!

The post The Best Minestrone Soup Recipe - Olive Garden Copycat appeared first on Make It Dairy Free.

From newbie vegans to experienced chefs, Paleovsketo.com is open to everyone who wants to join in revolutionizing healthy eating. Whether you are looking to test out the waters with vegetarianism or wanting tried-and-true recipes from dedicated experts - we've got it all! Thus come onboard and send us your stories and recipes at [email protected] and let's start fueling our passions together!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do to replace meat in a plant-based diet.

Ingenious vegan substitutes can replace meat in a plant-based diet. Tofu, seitan, tempeh (fermented soy beans), and mock duck made out of mushrooms can replicate the taste of traditional meats. Vegetarian burgers made of black beans, quinoa and other legumes can be just as tasty as traditional beef burgers. Tofu mayo, eggplant bacon bits or coconut bacon strips; vegetable hot dogs made from seasoned textured soybean protein; and faux chicken strips made from wheat gluten are all tasty alternatives. You can alter recipes to use fruits, vegetables, beans, seeds and nuts as well as vegetables and grains. You can also enjoy plant-based dishes by using other cooking methods such as steaming, roasting and grilling without losing their savoriness.

What are the advantages of eating plant-based protein?

The main problem of plant-based protein is the absence of essential vitamins. The amount of essential amino acids found in plant-based meat, including vitamin B12 and hemo iron, is lower than those found in animal protein sources. Due to the high amount of preservation required, some plant-based meats have more sodium than real meat. It can also be more costly and time-consuming to buy quality vegan products online or in grocery stores. When cooking times and food preparation are considered, vegan options may require more effort.

What can a plant-based diet do for your health?

Many health benefits can be derived from a plant-based diet. There is a link between eating more plant-based foods, and less animal products, and a lower risk of developing certain chronic diseases, such as stroke, heart disease, diabetes, stroke, or certain types of cancer. Plant-based foods are rich in vitamins and minerals as well as antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. They can also help prevent inflammation and oxidative harm. Because of the abundance of dietary fibre, eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, beans, and legumes has been proven to be beneficial. It feeds gut bacteria, maintains digestive health, and is a great way to get enough. Low levels of saturated fats are a common feature of plant-based meals plans, which can help increase cholesterol levels. Furthermore, studies suggest that a plant-based diet can help reduce symptoms associated with common mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Long-term satisfaction can be achieved by consuming a mixture of plant-based proteins as well as healthy fats like avocados and nuts.

You can still eat out at restaurants while following a plant-based lifestyle.

Many restaurants now offer plant-based menu options. Many vegan restaurants have opened in major cities and communities and offer delicious, healthy options. Most mainstream restaurants have vegetarian-friendly options. There is still plenty to choose from when you are looking for a restaurant that serves a plant based diet. Look out for recipes that include vegetables and legumes, such a tofu or tempeh, seitan or other protein sources, like beans. Vinegar and healthy oils can be substituted for mayonnaise or dressings that are high in saturated oil. Do not be afraid to ask your server whether certain items can be made vegan.

Additionally, consider researching vegan cookbooks in advance for ideas about what proteins can replace meats and rich sauces. Many restaurants will accommodate guests who eat a plant-based diet. They will also do their best to meet your needs. You can enjoy eating out with a plant-based menu if you do your research and have some creativity.

Is a plant-based diet the same as a vegan diet?

A plant-based diet does not mean you have to eat vegan. A plant-based eating plan is one that focuses on whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. This eating pattern typically eliminates or dramatically reduces the consumption of animal products such as meat or dairy, but small amounts of animal proteins may be included. On the other hand, veganism is an ethical lifestyle choice that involves following a completely plant-based diet and avoiding things like clothing or cosmetics made with animal products. While vegans might choose to eat a plant-based diet, these are two distinct concepts.

What are some fantastic sources of protein that can be found in a plant-based lifestyle?

The following are great sources for protein from a plant-based food diet: legumes such chickpeas, beans, and chickpeas. Also, soy products such as tofu, tempeh, and grains like quinoa, teff, nuts like almonds, walnuts and cashews. Seeds such as pumpkin, sunflower, and green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale and broccoli. Many of these plant proteins also contain fiber. You can balance your nutrient needs by adding omega-3 fats to plant-based foods like flaxseeds. chia, walnuts, and hemp seeds.

What are some tips to make the transition from a plant-based diet to one?

Transitioning to a plant-based diet can be intimidating, but it can become an exciting lifestyle change with the proper knowledge and support. Some tips for transitioning to this type of diet include:

1. For optimal macronutrients, vitamins and minerals, structure your meals around whole foods instead of processed foods.
2. We are committed to creating delicious, healthy meals that appeal to everyone.
3. A support network of friends, family, or health professionals.
4. Explore new ways to increase your enjoyment of good food and keep you healthy.
5. Slowly changing your habits and paying more attention to your nutrition intake.

People can increase their chances to maintain a healthy lifestyle by gradually changing to a plant-based diet.

Statistics

• A study found that livestock provides just 18 percent of calories consumed globally but takes up 83 percent of farmland. (forksoverknives.com)
• According to research published, going plant-based can cut grocery bills by $750 a year per person, Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition. (forksoverknives.com)

External Links

[TAG55]

• What is a plant-based diet? And why should you consider it? - Harvard Health

[TAG57]

• How common are vitamin B-12 deficiencies?

[TAG59]

• Plant-Based Diets for Personal, Population, and Planetary Health - ScienceDirect

[TAG61]

• Weight Loss


• Plant-Based Diets and Omega-3 Fatty Acids

How To

How to deal with social situations when you are on a plant based diet

Transitioning to a plant diet is difficult. This includes social situations like eating out with friends. Take proactive steps before you dine out so that you can maintain your chosen diet and still enjoy delicious food. Confirm the restaurant options beforehand - some places are more vegan-friendly than others - opting for cuisines like Indian and Japanese can give vegetarians multiple alternatives.

If you are able to order at the venue that is suitable for vegans please have a friendly conversation with your friends and family about the food you prefer. This will prevent awkward questions or confusions regarding your dietary restrictions. Have faith in the chef by trusting their judgment when crafting vegan dishes; chat with them if necessary so that they can better understand how to accommodate your needs best.

Be sure to bring healthy snacks and drinks for those who are not familiar with vegan food. When your vegan relatives start to incorporate vegan recipes, be sure to acknowledge even the smallest gestures.

While it might seem difficult at first to navigate social situations with a vegan diet, it becomes easier over time. Eventually, it becomes second nature; every effort put in results in gradual improvements, so start small and have faith in yourself!

Resources:

[TAG64] Full Episode coming soon...

[TAG65] Interview with Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn Reversing Heart Disease with Plant based Diet

[TAG66] Chili using walnuts, this was amazing!! FOLLOW ME: IG: @Natural_veganchef

[TAG67] Everyone Can Do This! Visit For more info on the VeganStrong team visit and Subscribe to their channels here: @veganstrongteam4935 @plantbuilt

[TAG68] In this video, I show exactly how I make a delicious raw cruciferous salad, compliant with Dr. Brooke Goldner Goodbye Lupus protocol, in addition to a RAW

[TAG69] For episode 7 we sat down with Four-Time NBA Champion and Wellness Master John Salley. John breaks down a lot of info in this episode for both vegans and

[TAG70] No one food can reduce your risk for cancer, but there is an overall diet that can. Learn what it means to eat a plant-based diet and see all the ways it can

[TAG71] The Veganuary Story! Founders Matthew Glover and Jane Land look back over 10 years of Veganuary, with team members and celebrity ambassadors including

[TAG72] Nutritionist & podcast host Simon Hill joins Rich to bust diet myths & prove why a plant-based diet is optimal for human and planetary health. To peruse the

[TAG73] If there were ever a creamy potato dish worth making, it is this one. It’s similar to scalloped potatoes, but better, in my opinion. It comes together…The post

[TAG74] GET MY FREE INSTANT POT COOKBOOK: MY LATEST BESTSELLING BOOK: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- […]

[TAG75] Find out who our judges selected as this year's winners, finalists and commended entries. Watch the full winners ceremony live stream on our social media

[TAG76] Can we talk about how beautiful those rainbow carrots are?! You are looking good today, carrots. This stunning roasted carrot dish features warm whole grains,

[TAG77] Following a plant-based diet (think vegan, vegetarian, or even flexitarian) is associated with a bevy of potential health benefits. That includes a lower risk

[TAG78] Somehow, November is here and it already feels like winter outside. Grace went trick or treating for the first time yesterday in her Minnie Mouse costume.

[TAG79] Have you tried a ranch water cocktail? If not, let me introduce you! Essentially a tall tequila soda with extra lime, the ranch water is more than…The post

[TAG80] Make this spinach salad recipe to serve with your favorite main dishes! This fresh spinach salad features seasonal fruit, creamy goat cheese, toasted pecans,

[TAG81] Appe Recipe | Paddu (Traditional Recipe)It is true that the versatility of a rice-lentil batter, typical of South Indian cuisine, can be used to create a

[TAG82] Creamy and fluffy olive oil mashed potatoes are naturally vegan and perfect as a dairy-free side dish. No milk is needed in this flavourful mash with roasted

[TAG83] Instant Pot Rice Pudding RecipeCreamy, cozy, and super comforting, this recipe for old-fashioned Rice Pudding is made in a jiffy using the Instant Pot. With

[TAG84] ...

[TAG85] Fruit Biscuits (Tutti Frutti Cookies)I’m going to give you a few reasons as to why you should make cookies – they are versatile, customizable, a perfect snack

[TAG86] Chutney Sandwich RecipeGot the ingredients for a delish green chutney and some bread slices at home? How about you bring them together and make this super

[TAG87] Veg Puff Recipe | Indian Curry PuffA lot has been said, in fact argued, on how there’s a difference of skills required for baking versus simple cooking. I

[TAG88] Ready within an hour, this sweet potato kale salad with crispy chickpeas and pickled red...The post Kale Sweet Potato Salad with Crispy Chickpeas, Pickled Red

[TAG89] Who doesn't love a good brownie? They're chocolatey, gooey, and always hit the spot. But have you ever tried tahini brownies? It may sound a bit unconventional,

[TAG90] This coffee smoothie recipe is perfect for busy mornings. You know those days when you have time to make a cup of coffee or a healthy breakfast…but not both?

[TAG91] Choosing more plant-based foods can help you eat a healthier diet. A Heart & Stroke dietitian explains how.

[TAG92] I’ll never forget the first time I tried falafel. Stuffed into pita bread with fresh herbs, crisp veggies, and a big slather of hummus, it was crispy, rich,

[TAG93] These Caramel Apple Empanadas are the ultimate Fall treat! Fresh apples, cinnamon-sugar, and caramel are all wrapped up in a flaky pie crust for a totally

[TAG94] Find over 15 vegan butternut squash recipes in this roundup with options ranging from soup, rich pasta, healthy bowls, roasts, salads & more!The post 15 Vegan

[TAG95] If you're looking for a tasty and healthy breakfast or snack, these banana cranberry muffins are the perfect choice. They're packed with fresh bananas and

[TAG96] These stuffed peppers deserve a spot in your dinner rotation! They’re the perfect combination of comforting and fresh, filled with a delicious blend of rice

[TAG97] If you're looking for a tasty and healthy breakfast or snack, these banana cranberry muffins are the perfect choice. They're packed with fresh bananas and

[TAG98] One of the most powerful steps you can take to improve your health is to move to a plant-based diet. We have everything you need to know to get started here

[TAG99] This keto cauliflower mac and cheese is not only a culinary delight, but also a perfect choice for those following a low-carb diet. Imagine the cauliflower

[TAG100] Roasted vegan butternut squash soup with apples and pecans is creamy and silky without coconut milk! Ginger, garlic & chili makes it so tastyThe post Roasted

[TAG101] Effortlessly organize your kitchen with these Kitchen Labels Template! Personalized and editable container jar labels for spices and pantry items. Instant

[TAG102] This mango smoothie recipe is like sunshine in a glass! It’s cool and creamy, with a sweet, tangy tropical flavor and the cheeriest color around. It tastes

[TAG103] Good healthy lunch ideas are like gold. In the middle of a busy work day, lunch is the longest break I take. It’s a time to reset, relax, and re-energize to

[TAG104] This warm spiced and clumpy apple cinnamon granola is slow-baked with maple syrup, coconut oil, almond butter, pecans & crunchy apple chips.The post Clumpy

[TAG105] Whether you’re considering eating less meat or giving it up entirely.

[TAG106] Apple pancakes: two words that evoke memories of home and comforting aromas. Imagine pieces of caramelized apples dressed over warm fluffy pancakes, ready to

[TAG107] Explore these actionable tips on what helps with digestion and learn how to enhance gut health and promote overall well-being. Digestion is a fundamental

[TAG108] Looking for guidance on how to make the transition to vegetarian? This article offers invaluable tips to guide you through a smooth and fulfilling shift So,

[TAG109] Sun-kissed tomatoes and a crusty baguette pair up for some magic in this simple Panzanella Salad. It's quick, easy, and packed with Italian inspired flavor -

[TAG110] Craving a warm cinnamon roll, but don't have hours to spend in the kitchen? Enter this Vegan Cinnamon Roll in a Mug. You can whip up a warm, gooey cinnamon bun

[TAG111] Are you looking for a delicious and healthy vegan dinner idea? Look no further than this vegan zucchini lasagna. It's light, healthy, and bursting with flavor

[TAG112] Columbia and NYP nutritionist Sabrina Toledano explains the benefits of a plant-based diet and how to get started.

[TAG113] Get ready to experience the magic of vegan apple honey! It’s a vegan friendly alternative to traditional honey that’s simple, delicious, and easy to make with

[TAG114] These Chipotle black bean burgers are my new favorite vegan burger. They are a meatless burger made with black beans, diced onions, carrots, celery, and

[TAG115] If you are new to plant based eating or looking for a new recipe to try out, give this vegan walnut taco meat for your next dinner. This walnut taco meat is

[TAG116] Hint: Your energy levels, gut microbiome, and environmental impact all win big.