Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

My family’s favorite quick and easy Italian-style soup is this Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that warms you up on chilly days. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The creamy texture combined with the zesty lemon elevates it to another level, making it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, sausage, and lemon creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with white beans and spinach, this soup is a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy it as a light meal or pair it with crusty bread for a heartier option.
• Comfort Food Delight: This soup is perfect for warming up during the winter months, offering both comfort and satisfaction.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essentials for preparing your Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Chopping board
• Chef’s knife
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for even heat distribution, allowing your ingredients to cook thoroughly while enhancing flavors.
• Chopping board: A stable surface ensures safety and efficiency when prepping vegetables.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping quick and easy, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Ladle: Ideal for serving soup, ensuring you get just the right amount in each bowl.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 jar (8 ounce) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 pound spicy Italian chicken sausage
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 6 cups broth

For Flavor and Texture

• 2 cans white beans
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup whole milk or cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• zest and juice of 1 lemon
• chopped fresh parsley for serving

How to Make Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Drain 3 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar into a Dutch oven.
2. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Set the pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and onion, cooking until browned.
2. Break up the meat as it cooks. Add shallots, garlic, carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for another 5 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Add the broth to the pot.
2. Simmer for 10 minutes over medium heat until veggies are tender.

Step 4: Final Additions

1. Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, white beans, cream, parmesan cheese, zest, and lemon juice.
2. Cook for an additional few minutes until everything is warmed through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide the soup among bowls.
2. Top with additional parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Enjoy with warm bread!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup can elevate your meal experience. This hearty soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy goodness.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of flavor and color. It adds a fresh element that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a light, mixed green salad. The crunch and freshness of the salad balance the richness of the soup.

With Grated Cheese on Top

• Sprinkle extra grated parmesan or pecorino cheese before serving. It enhances the taste and adds an appealing presentation.

As Part of a Cozy Dinner Spread

• Include this soup in a cozy dinner spread with other comfort foods like roasted vegetables or grilled chicken for a satisfying meal.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving brings out the flavors. It adds a rich finish that makes each bite delightful.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

Perfecting Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out fantastic every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly. Aim for seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender after cooking, then mix it back in.
• Experiment with Broth: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for better flavor depth. Chicken or vegetable broth works well.
• Add Citrus Zest: Increase brightness by adding more lemon zest at the end of cooking. This gives a refreshing finish.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

A well-rounded meal can be achieved by pairing Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for dipping into the soup’s creamy base.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and spices make a hearty side dish that complements the flavors of the soup well.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a nutritious pairing that balances the meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth and texture, making them an excellent accompaniment to the smooth soup.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese provides a comforting side that pairs beautifully with any soup dish.
7. Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette dressing adds crunch and freshness, making it an ideal partner for creamy soups.
8. Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed vegetables tossed with pasta create a colorful dish that enhances your dining experience without overpowering the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: If you cook the vegetables too long, they can become mushy. Aim to simmer just until tender for the best texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper can lead to bland soup. Be sure to season throughout the cooking process for maximum flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can diminish the overall taste. Choose good quality broth and fresh vegetables for a rich flavor.
• Not Adding Enough Liquid: If the soup seems too thick, add more broth or water gradually. The ideal consistency should be creamy but not too heavy.
• Forgetting to Blend: If you prefer a smoother soup, blending some of it will enhance creaminess. Use an immersion blender or regular blender as desired.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space in containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup.

Can I make Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or simply omit it for a lighter version.

What type of beans should I use?

Canned white beans like cannellini or great northern work best, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor.

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale, or substitute different herbs based on your preference.

Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk or coconut milk can be used as alternatives for whole milk or cream without sacrificing creaminess.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have at home. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting winter dish!

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Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings warmth and comfort to any chilly day. Blending the creaminess of white beans with zesty lemon and sun-dried tomatoes, this Italian-inspired soup is not only quick to prepare but also packed with nutrients. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Enjoy it as a light meal on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a heartier option.

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Ingredients

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• 1 jar (8 ounce) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 pound spicy Italian chicken sausage
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 6 cups broth
• 2 cans white beans
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup whole milk or cream
• zest and juice of 1 lemon
• chopped fresh parsley for serving

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Instructions

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes in a Dutch oven. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken sausage and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.
3. Add shallots, garlic, carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the broth and simmer for 10 minutes until veggies are tender.
5. Stir in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, white beans, cream, parmesan cheese, zest, and lemon juice. Cook for an additional few minutes until warmed through.
6. Serve topped with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 40mg