Olive Garden's Tuscan Soup: A Delicious Recipe to Make at Home
Olive Garden's Tuscan Soup is a fan favorite known for its hearty, flavorful broth and generous helping of vegetables. While the restaurant's exact recipe remains a secret, this version captures the essence of that beloved soup, allowing you to recreate the magic in your own kitchen. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to make this comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a flexible foundation; feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings.
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For the Soup Base:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (naturally!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (a classic mirepoix!)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For the Hearty Additions:
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (or a mix!)
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni) – optional, for a heartier soup
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This detailed guide ensures a smooth cooking process, resulting in a delicious bowl of Tuscan soup.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Flavor Base: Pour in the vegetable broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add the Beans and Greens: Stir in the cannellini beans. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of simmering, allowing it to wilt.
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Optional Pasta Addition: If using pasta, add it during the last 8-10 minutes of cooking time, ensuring it's cooked through but still has a slight bite.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese are delicious finishing touches.
Tips and Variations:
- For a creamier soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Add protein: Cooked Italian sausage, chicken, or chickpeas would be excellent additions.
- Make it vegetarian/vegan: Ensure your broth is vegetarian/vegan friendly.
- Fresh herbs: Fresh oregano and basil will elevate the flavor profile significantly. Add them at the end for the best results.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
This recipe offers a fantastic starting point. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, beans, and herbs to create your own unique version of Olive Garden's Tuscan Soup. Enjoy the culinary journey!
