HEARTY TUSCAN WHITE BEAN SOUP – A COMFORTING ITALIAN CLASSIC
Meta Description: Enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup made with fresh vegetables and creamy white beans. Perfect for a healthy, cozy meal!
Introduction:
Tuscan white bean soup is a comforting, nourishing dish inspired by Italian flavors. This soup combines creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and a medley of herbs to create a simple yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a healthy lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup is a wholesome option that’s full of flavor and easy to make!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini), drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Beans and Seasoning: Stir in the white beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, letting the flavors combine.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add Greens and Finish: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt in the soup for about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Estimated Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 7g
Note: Nutrition facts may vary based on specific ingredients.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
FAQs About Tuscan White Bean Soup
1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand. Dried beans have a great texture, but they require extra preparation time.
2. Can I make this soup in advance?
Definitely! This soup stores well and can even taste better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I add pasta or grains to this soup?
For a heartier version, you can add cooked pasta, quinoa, or farro to the soup. Just add it in the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This Tuscan white bean soup is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free vegetable broth.
5. What can I pair with this soup?
Serve it with crusty bread, a simple salad, or a side of roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup
- Add Greens Last: Adding spinach or kale at the end keeps it vibrant and prevents overcooking.
- Use Fresh Herbs If Available: Fresh thyme and rosemary can make the flavors more aromatic. Simply double the amount if using fresh herbs.
- Mash Some Beans for Extra Creaminess: For a thicker texture, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tuscan white bean soup is a nutritious, cozy dish filled with plant-based protein and fiber. It’s perfect for chilly days, meal prepping, or whenever you’re craving something wholesome. The mix of vegetables, beans, and herbs creates a rich, earthy flavor that makes this soup feel like a warm Italian hug.