Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to meal prep for the week ahead. With its rich combination of beans and vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also packed with protein, making it a fulfilling option for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup comes together in just one pot, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
• Flavorful: The blend of herbs, garlic, and the tangy hint from white apple vinegar creates a depth of flavor that’s truly satisfying.
• Versatile: Pair it with gluten-free bread for dipping or serve it alongside a fresh salad; it fits well into any meal.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber and protein from cannellini beans and kale, this soup is as nutritious as it is filling.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Tuscan white bean soup efficiently, a few essential tools will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender (immersion blender works best)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Blender: Allows you to 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.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed, finely chopped)
– 2 1/2 – 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 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

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it begins to brown slightly.
* Incorporate minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes until the veggies soften.

Step 2: Add Vinegar and Simmer

Once your vegetables have softened:
* Pour in the white apple vinegar. Sauté until most of the liquid evaporates, which should take around five minutes.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all other ingredients except for kale:
* Stir in cannellini beans, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and your choice of broth. Mix well.

Step 4: Boil Then Simmer

Bring your mixture to a boil:
* Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Part of the Soup

After simmering:
* Remove bay leaves from the pot. Transfer about two-and-a-half to three cups of the soup into a blender.
* Blend until smooth then return this mixture back into the pot.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Flavor

If your soup seems too thick:
* Add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Next:
* Stir in chopped kale. Let it simmer for an additional few minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Finally:
* Serve your Tuscan white bean soup warm on its own or alongside hearty gluten-free bread. Enjoy!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a light starter, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rustic Gluten-Free Bread

• Pair the soup with slices of rustic gluten-free bread for dipping. The crusty texture complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a burst of color and an aromatic touch to each serving.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving elevates the flavors and adds richness to the soup.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Serve with a light salad, such as mixed greens or a simple arugula salad. The freshness balances the heartiness of the soup.

With Lemon Wedges

• Offer lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze. This brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing twist.

As Part of a Larger Meal

• Include Tuscan white bean soup in a multi-course meal. It works well as an appetizer or alongside grilled meats or vegetables.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

Creating the perfect Tuscan white bean soup involves attention to detail and flavor balance. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutritional content of your soup.
• Adjust Broth Amount: Start with less broth; you can always add more if needed for your desired consistency.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding in the kale.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, and spices to suit your palate.
• Let it Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit after cooking can deepen its flavors.
• Experiment with Greens: Feel free to swap kale for other greens like spinach or Swiss chard based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Pairing tuscan white bean soup with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that work well together.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread adds crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup.
2. Caesar Salad
   This crisp salad offers tanginess from dressing, making it a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies provide added nutrition and texture; simply toss them in olive oil and herbs before roasting.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh vegetables can be nutritious and filling alongside your soup.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   These colorful peppers stuffed with grains and beans make for a hearty companion dish that complements the flavors of the soup.
6. Herbed Couscous
   Fluffy couscous mixed with herbs is easy to prepare and makes an excellent side that enhances any meal featuring Tuscan white bean soup.
7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   A childhood favorite, grilled cheese sandwiches add comfort and are perfect for dipping into warm soup.
8. Pasta Primavera
   Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables tossed with pasta offer another layer of flavor that pairs nicely with this hearty dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tuscan white bean soup can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the soaking step: If using dried beans, not soaking them can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak beans overnight for best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup bland. Regularly taste as you cook and enhance flavors with salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
• Overcooking the kale: Adding kale too early can result in mushy greens. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for a vibrant texture.
• Ignoring liquid ratios: Using too little broth may cause the soup to be overly thick. Start with the lower amount of broth and add more as needed for your desired consistency.
• Rushing the sautéing process: Not allowing vegetables to brown properly can diminish flavor. Take your time during this step to enhance the soup’s taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes in an oven-safe dish covered with foil.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add extra broth if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty and nutritious dish made primarily from cannellini beans, vegetables, and spices, often enjoyed with crusty bread.

Can I make Tuscan White Bean Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan, using plant-based ingredients like beans and vegetables without any animal products.

How do I customize my Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also include different spices based on your preference.

Is Tuscan White Bean Soup gluten-free?

Yes! The ingredients in this Tuscan white bean soup are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan white bean soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. Its rich flavor profile makes it perfect for any meal, whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing with loved ones. Experiment with different veggies or spices to find your favorite combination!

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: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 6

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Description

Discover the comforting taste of Italy with this delightful Tuscan White Bean Soup, a nourishing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup combines tender cannellini beans, a medley of fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a rich and flavorful experience. Ideal for cozy family dinners or as a meal prep staple, each spoonful is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. Serve it warm alongside rustic gluten-free bread for an unforgettable meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cans (15 oz each) 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 to 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• salt
• black pepper
• red pepper flakes
• Italian seasoning
• bay leaves
• dried thyme
• dried oregano

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Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until slightly browned.
2. Add minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots; cook for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in white apple vinegar and sauté until most of the liquid evaporates.
4. Add cannellini beans, tomato paste, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and broth; mix well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil then cover and simmer on low for about 15 minutes.
6. Remove bay leaves and blend about 2.5 to 3 cups of the soup until smooth; return to pot.
7. Adjust consistency with more broth if needed and stir in chopped kale; simmer for another few minutes until wilted.
8. Serve warm with gluten-free bread.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 0mg