Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

This Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs is a delightful and hearty meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors from cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or even freezing for later enjoyment. It’s a vegan and gluten-free dish that showcases the essence of rustic Italian cooking, making it suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is easy to follow, requiring minimal cooking skills and time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Combining fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme creates a delicious depth of flavor.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is not only tasty but also nourishing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or a side; it pairs well with crusty bread.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for simmering the soup without overflow.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Beans and Broth

• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Greens

• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until the vegetables are soft and translucent.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, rosemary sprig, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Incorporate Greens

In the final few minutes of cooking, add your choice of spinach or kale. Stir until just wilted.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Stir in lemon juice before serving hot. Enjoy your Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs!

How to Serve Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

Serving Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs can enhance its delightful flavors. This soup is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments, making it perfect for any occasion.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with slices of warm sourdough or a freshly baked baguette for dipping.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Basil: Sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top for added aroma and freshness.

Accompanied by Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the hearty soup perfectly.

Finished with Olive Oil

• Drizzle Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and enhances the rustic flavors.

With Grated Parmesan

• Parmesan Cheese: For those who enjoy cheese, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan can add depth to each bowl.

Served with Lemon Wedges

• Lemon Wedges on the Side: Offering lemon wedges allows guests to brighten their soup with a splash of citrus.

How to Perfect Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

Perfecting this Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme provide a vibrant flavor that dried herbs cannot match.
• Soak Beans Overnight: If using dried beans, soak them overnight for a creamier texture in the soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper towards the end of cooking for the best flavor balance.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavor profile, making it even more delicious.
• Store Properly: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for later use.

Best Side Dishes for Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

Pairing side dishes with your Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup can create a complete meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread makes a wonderful companion for soaking up every drop of soup.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a delightful contrast in texture and taste alongside your soup.
4. Polenta: Creamy polenta can be served alongside the soup, providing a rich and comforting addition.
5. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring olives, artichokes, and cured meats adds variety to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a healthy side that pairs well without overpowering the soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and herbs make a hearty side that complements the Italian theme.
8. Cheesy Risotto: Creamy risotto topped with parmesan is indulgent and pairs exceptionally well as a side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs can be straightforward, but avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience.

• Using dried beans instead of canned: While dried beans require soaking and longer cooking times, using canned beans saves time. If you prefer dried, soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Neglecting to sauté vegetables: Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery is crucial for building flavor. Skipping this step can lead to a bland soup. Be sure to cook them until soft and translucent.
• Overcooking the greens: Adding spinach or kale too early can make them mushy. For the best texture and color, add them in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste before serving! The amount of salt and pepper may vary based on personal preference and broth used. Adjust these seasonings to achieve the right balance.
• Skipping the lemon juice: This final touch enhances the soup’s flavor. Omitting it may result in a less vibrant taste. Always remember to stir in lemon juice just before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

• Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are in Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs?

This soup features cannellini beans, fresh vegetables like carrots and celery, garlic, vegetable broth, and aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme.

Can I customize my Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or spices based on your preference. Feel free to experiment with seasonal produce.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

The recipe is already gluten-free as it uses vegetable broth without added gluten ingredients. Always check labels when using packaged products.

What are some side dishes that pair well with this soup?

Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or a simple green salad. These sides complement the hearty flavors of the soup beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs is not only comforting but also versatile. Perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners, it allows for plenty of customization based on your preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own!

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Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs

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

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Description

Indulge in the comforting warmth of Rustic Tuscan Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs, a simple yet hearty dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. This vegan and gluten-free soup is made with creamy cannellini beans, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme, creating a delightful depth of flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup is easy to make and ideal for freezing. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or paired with crusty bread, this dish brings a touch of rustic charm to your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Fresh rosemary and thyme
• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
• Lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery for 8–10 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste; cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
3. Add cannellini beans, vegetable broth, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
5. In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in spinach or kale until just wilted.
6. Remove bay leaf and stir in lemon juice before serving hot.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 215
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, try soaking dried beans overnight instead of using canned. Experiment with additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety.