This Tuscan white bean soup is not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prepping for the week, this dish highlights the rich flavors of Italy. With its hearty ingredients and plant-based goodness, it’s a versatile option suitable for both family dinners and gatherings. Pair it with rustic gluten-free bread, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: This recipe requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in one pot.
- Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of beans, vegetables, and spices creates a rich, satisfying flavor profile.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: It caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time; it keeps well in the fridge or freezer.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily adjust the veggies and spices to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking your Tuscan white bean soup, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Blender (or immersion blender)
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
- Chef’s knife: Cuts through vegetables easily, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup.
Ingredients
This Tuscan white bean soup is made in one pot, easy to make and perfect for meal prep! It’s vegan, gluten-free, full of protein, and perfect with some rustic (gluten-free!) bread for dipping.
Beans and Vegetables
- 3 15 ounce cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 1 stalk celery (diced)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup white wine (I used pinot grigio)
- 2 – 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper(or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes(omit if you don’t like spice)
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Greens
- 2 cups chopped kale(stems removed, finely chopped)
How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Saute the finely chopped onion in a large pot or Dutch oven with the olive oil until it starts to brown slightly.
Step 2: Add More Vegetables
Once the onion is browned, add in the minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Sauté for an additional 10 minutes until the veggies soften.
Step 3: Incorporate Wine
Add in the white wine. Sauté until most of the liquid has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add all remaining ingredients except for the chopped kale. Stir well. Bring to a boil before covering and reducing heat to low. Let simmer for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Blend Part of the Soup
Discard bay leaves. Transfer about 2½ – 3 cups worth of soup to a blender. Blend until smooth.
Step 6: Return Soup to Pot
Transfer blended soup back to the pot. Stir well to combine. If it’s too thick, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Add Kale
Add in chopped kale and let simmer for a few minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust flavors as desired; I usually add more salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Step 8: Serve
Serve warm on its own or with hearty bread on the side. Enjoy!
How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup
This hearty Tuscan white bean soup is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main meal or a starter, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Pair the soup with rustic, crusty bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavors and adds a satisfying texture.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your bowl with chopped fresh parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and freshness to each serving.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top enhances the richness of the soup. It also adds an extra layer of flavor.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- Serve alongside a simple mixed greens salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This adds brightness and balances the hearty soup.
With Shaved Parmesan Cheese
- For non-vegan variations, sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese on top before serving. The cheese melts slightly into the hot soup for added creaminess.
As Part of a Larger Meal
- Incorporate it into a multi-course meal, serving it as an appetizer before a pasta dish or main course. This elevates your dining experience.
How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup
To ensure your Tuscan white bean soup reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.
- Use quality beans: Opt for high-quality cannellini beans for better flavor and texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste throughout cooking and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your preference.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the soup in advance; flavors deepen and improve after resting overnight in the fridge.
- Blend partially: For a creamy texture without losing all the chunky bits, blend only part of the soup before returning it to the pot.
- Experiment with greens: While kale is traditional, try adding spinach or Swiss chard for variety.
- Add acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the overall flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup
Tuscan white bean soup pairs well with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the savory broth.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies adds color and nutrition to your meal.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a tasty contrast to the soup’s texture.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains and vegetables, making them a hearty addition alongside the soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a light yet filling sidekick.
- Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables over pasta create a colorful complement to the rich soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic comfort food that pairs wonderfully with warm, inviting soups like this one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Tuscan white bean soup should be enjoyable, but some common mistakes can hinder your results.
- Skipping the sauté step – Sautéing the onion and garlic gives the soup a depth of flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step.
- Not rinsing the beans – Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and improves taste. Be sure to drain and rinse them before adding.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments – Every ingredient’s flavor varies. Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt, pepper, or spices accordingly.
- Overcooking the kale – Kale should be added at the end to maintain its texture and nutrients. Add it just a few minutes before serving.
- Using too much broth – Start with less broth than you think you need; you can always add more for desired consistency later.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Tuscan white bean soup in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for best results.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
- Stovetop – Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tuscan White Bean Soup?
Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty dish made primarily with cannellini beans, vegetables, and spices. It’s nutritious and comforting.
Can I make Tuscan White Bean Soup vegan?
Yes! This recipe is already vegan. It uses plant-based ingredients that are both delicious and satisfying.
How can I customize my Tuscan White Bean Soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also substitute different greens if you prefer!
What should I serve with Tuscan White Bean Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic bread for dipping or a fresh salad on the side.
Final Thoughts
Tuscan white bean soup is not only nourishing but also very versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have at home. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal or something healthy, this recipe won’t disappoint. Give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!
Tuscan White Bean Soup
Tuscan white bean soup is a delightful blend of hearty cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep, this nourishing soup is vegan, gluten-free, and easy to make in just one pot. Enjoy its rich flavors complemented by rustic gluten-free bread for a truly satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether served as a main dish or paired with a salad, this versatile soup will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 3 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
- 1 stalk celery (diced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup white wine (like pinot grigio)
- 2 – 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups chopped kale
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion in olive oil until slightly browned.
- Add the garlic, celery, and carrots; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the white wine and cook until most liquid evaporates.
- Add remaining ingredients except for the kale; bring to boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves; blend a portion of the soup until smooth and return to pot.
- Stir in kale; simmer until wilted. Adjust seasoning before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
