Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is not only comforting and hearty, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or meal prep for the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this soup delivers. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe requires only one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful & Hearty: The combination of beans, vegetables, and spices creates a rich and satisfying dish.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week; it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Full of protein and fiber, this soup keeps you full and nourished.
• Customizable: Adjust spices and greens according to your taste preferences; it’s versatile!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Tuscan white bean soup is simple with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• A large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures clean cuts for all your veggies, making prep time quicker.
• Blender: Helps achieve that creamy texture by blending 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.

For the Soup Base

• 3 15 ounce cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 1 stalk celery (diced)
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar (I used pinot grigio)
• 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed, finely chopped)
• 2 1/2 – 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (see notes)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
– Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the onion has started to brown slightly:
– Add minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots.
– Continue to sauté for about 10 minutes until these veggies soften.

Step 3: Incorporate Vinegar

Add the white apple vinegar:
– Sauté until most of the liquid has evaporated, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all remaining ingredients except kale:
– Pour in cannellini beans, tomato paste, broth (starting with 2 1/2 cups), salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, thyme, and oregano.
– Stir well to combine everything.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil:
– Cover it with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

After simmering:
– Discard bay leaves.
– Transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups of the soup to a blender. Blend until smooth.

Step 7: Combine Blended Soup

Return blended soup back to the pot:
– Stir thoroughly. If too thick, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Kale

Finally:
– Stir in chopped kale. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until wilted. Taste test and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy

Serve warm:
– Enjoy your delicious Tuscan white bean soup on its own or alongside hearty bread for dipping!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan white bean soup is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you choose to enjoy it as a main meal or alongside other dishes, there are numerous options to elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Rustic Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread complements the soup perfectly, ideal for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store in Portions: This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep. Simply reheat as needed.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil for added flavor and freshness.

With a Side Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Caesar Salad: The richness of Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons enhance the overall meal experience.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a savory touch that enhances the flavors of the soup.
• Vegan Cheese: For a vegan option, use nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternatives for added creaminess without compromising dietary choices.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

Creating the ideal Tuscan white bean soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible. They significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Broth Levels: Start with 2 1/2 cups of broth and add more if needed. This allows you to control the thickness of your soup.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices like red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning based on your taste preferences.
• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without adding extra calories. It’s a great way to make the soup feel heartier.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup while cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, and acidity (like lemon juice) to achieve the perfect balance.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all flavors together, giving it depth and richness.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Tuscan white bean soup enhances your meal’s enjoyment. Here are several options that make perfect companions.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing known for its crunchy texture and rich flavor that complements any soup.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds brightness to each bite.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a filling accompaniment that rounds out your meal nicely.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while providing additional flavors to enjoy alongside your soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a nutritious side that’s easy to prepare ahead of time.
6. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses invites guests to create their own bites that pair well with each spoonful of soup.
7. Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a contrasting texture that complements the warmth of the soup.
8. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta brings freshness and crunch, making it an excellent starter before diving into your hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan white bean soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the vegetables: Not sautéing the onion and garlic properly can lead to less flavor in your soup. Make sure to let them brown slightly to enhance their taste.
• Skipping the blending step: If you skip blending part of the soup, it may not achieve the creamy texture that makes it special. Blend a portion of it for that perfect consistency.
• Using too much broth: Adding too much broth can dilute the flavors of your Tuscan white bean soup. Start with less and adjust based on your desired thickness.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Always taste before serving and add salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
• Overcooking the kale: Cooking the kale for too long can make it mushy and lose its vibrant color. Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

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

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tuscan white bean soup?

Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish made primarily with cannellini beans, vegetables, and seasonings. It’s known for its creamy texture and is often served with rustic bread.

Can I customize my Tuscan white bean soup?

Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Try adding spinach or zucchini for variation.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This Tuscan white bean soup is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure any broth you use also meets gluten-free standards.

Can I use other beans instead of cannellini?

Yes, while cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute them with navy beans or great northern beans if you prefer.

Is Tuscan white bean soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is vegan as it contains no animal products. Enjoy it guilt-free!

Final Thoughts

Tuscan white bean soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep for busy weeks ahead. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices! Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to love it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Tuscan White Bean Soup

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

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Description

Indulge in the warmth of this Tuscan white bean soup, a nourishing and hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep. Full of wholesome ingredients like cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this vegan and gluten-free soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With just one pot required, cleanup is minimal, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting main course or alongside crusty bread for dipping, this flavorful soup promises to impress everyone at your table.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 1 stalk celery (diced)
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
• 2.5 – 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Spices: salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, dried thyme, oregano

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add garlic, celery, and carrots; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in white apple vinegar and cook until evaporated.
4. Add cannellini beans, tomato paste, broth (starting with 2.5 cups), and spices; mix well.
5. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
6. Discard bay leaves; blend part of the soup until smooth.
7. Return blended soup to pot; adjust thickness with additional broth if necessary.
8. Stir in kale and simmer until wilted; season to taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 0mg