Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pasta fagioli soup Olive Garden style is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. This Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or any occasion when you crave something hearty and satisfying. With its blend of tender pasta, nutritious beans, and aromatic vegetables, this soup stands out for its rich flavors and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe makes it easy to whip up a delicious meal.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup offers a healthy dose of fiber and nutrients.
Versatile Flavor: Customize the recipe by adding different beans or greens like spinach for added nutrition.
Comforting Dish: Ideal for chilly nights, it’s a perfect way to warm your soul.
Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the essential tools you’ll need to make this scrumptious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing.
Knife: A sharp knife helps you chop your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Extra virgin olive oil
Onion
Carrots
Celery
Garlic

For the Flavor Profile

Canned crushed tomatoes
Canned kidney beans
Basil and oregano

For the Pasta

Ditalini pasta

For the Broth

Vegetable broth

Optional Topping

Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent.
2. Add diced carrots and celery; stir occasionally until softened.
3. Mix in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
5. Add kidney beans, basil, and oregano; let simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition Facts: Calories: 250 calories, Carbs: 38g, Protein: 10g, Fat: 8g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 5mg, Sodium: 550mg, Fiber: 7g, Sugar: 4g

How to Make Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil. Add chopped onions first and sauté until they become translucent.

Step 2: Add Carrots and Celery

Next, add diced carrots and celery to the pot. Stir occasionally until they soften slightly.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic

Mix in minced garlic at this point. Cook for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes along with vegetable broth. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients well.

Step 5: Season with Beans and Herbs

Add canned kidney beans along with dried basil and oregano. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes so that flavors meld together.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Stir in ditalini pasta next. Cook according to package instructions until al dente for perfect texture.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste your soup one last time. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot with an optional sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your warming bowl of Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup!

How to Serve Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Serving Pasta Fagioli Soup Olive Garden style is simple yet delightful. This comforting dish can be paired with various sides and garnishes to enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.

Accompanied by Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm, crispy garlic bread on the side for dipping into the soup.
Crusty Italian Bread: A slice of crusty bread complements the richness of the soup well.

Topped with Cheese

Parmesan Cheese: Add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to elevate the taste and create a creamy texture.

As a Meal Prep Option

Containers for Storage: Portion the soup into containers for easy meal prep. It stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

How to Perfect Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

To make your Pasta Fagioli Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

Bold Flavors: Use fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried ones for a more vibrant taste.
Cooking Pasta Separately: Cook ditalini pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy in the soup.
Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
Experiment with Beans: Substitute kidney beans with cannellini or black beans for different flavors and textures.
Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Pairing your soup with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes a delightful appetizer.
Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables make a filling side.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables brings additional texture and nutrients to your meal.
Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can serve as a refreshing side that balances the warm soup.
Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the pasta too long in the soup, it may become mushy. Always follow package instructions and add the pasta towards the end of cooking.
Neglecting seasoning: This recipe benefits from the right balance of herbs. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving for a well-rounded flavor.
Skipping fresh ingredients: Using canned vegetables instead of fresh can lead to less vibrant flavors. Opt for fresh carrots, celery, and herbs whenever possible.
Ignoring simmer time: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances its flavor. Don’t rush this step; let it simmer for at least 10 minutes for best results.
Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key ingredient in this soup. Choose a quality vegetable broth for a richer taste and avoid watered-down options.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Leave space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Microwave on high in short intervals, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.
Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this delicious soup.

Can I make Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply use vegetable broth and omit any meat-based ingredients.

How can I customize my Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

Feel free to add different beans or leafy greens like spinach for extra nutrition.

What can I serve with Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How long does Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe last?

When stored properly, it can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Olive Garden Pasta Fagioli Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or beans. Give it a try on your next cozy night in!