Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is a delightful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or looking for an easy meal prep option, this soup ticks all the boxes. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and loaded with protein, making it a nutritious choice. The rich flavors of cannellini beans, kale, and spices come together beautifully in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe requires minimal cleanup since everything cooks in a single pot.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or spices.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sautéed vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s truly comforting.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Tuscan white bean soup efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for cooking soups as it distributes heat evenly and allows for easy stirring.
• Blender: Essential for creating a creamy texture by blending part of the soup until smooth.

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

• 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

this recipe

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in your large pot. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it starts to brown slightly.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Other Vegetables

Once the onion is browned, add minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the veggies soften.

Step 3: Incorporate Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar. Sauté until most of the liquid has evaporated, which should take around 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for the kale. Stir well to combine everything together.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then cover it and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

Discard the bay leaves. Take about 2 1/2 to 3 cups of the soup mixture and blend until smooth using your blender.

Step 7: Mix Back into Pot

Return the blended soup back into the pot. Stir well. If it’s too thick, gradually add more broth until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Kale

Stir in chopped kale and let it simmer just long enough for it to wilt—about a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Enjoy this Tuscan white bean soup warm either on its own or alongside hearty bread!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rustic Bread

• Serve with crusty, gluten-free bread for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil on top for added flavor and a burst of color. These herbs brighten up each bowl.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness. This simple touch takes the soup to another level.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a light salad, such as arugula or mixed greens. This adds a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Garnished with Lemon Juice

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the soup enhances its flavors. It adds a zesty note that balances the creaminess.

With Vegan Parmesan

• Sprinkle some vegan parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory kick. It mimics traditional cheese without dairy.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Tuscan white bean soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the taste of your soup significantly.
• Adjust seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference before serving.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup gives it a creamy texture without adding dairy. This step enhances mouthfeel.
• Experiment with broth: Try using homemade vegetable or chicken broth for deeper flavors rather than store-bought options.
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to sit for even 30 minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Serve hot: Enjoy the soup while it’s hot for the best experience, as this enhances its comforting qualities.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan white bean soup pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of flavorful broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast and pairs well with the creamy soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while balancing out the meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies can enhance protein content and add freshness.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers offer a colorful and filling addition to your dinner table.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad brings in textures that contrast nicely with warm soup, making it more satisfying.
7. Sautéed Greens: Sautéed spinach or Swiss chard can add more greens to your meal while keeping it healthy.
8. Bruschetta: Fresh bruschetta topped with tomatoes and basil is a deliciously vibrant way to start your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tuscan white bean soup is simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the onion and garlic for too long can lead to bitterness. Keep an eye on them and sauté until just softened.
• Neglecting seasoning: Many skip seasoning during cooking. Remember to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout the process for a balanced flavor.
• Using too much broth: Adding too much broth can dilute the flavors. Start with the lower amount suggested and adjust as needed for your desired consistency.
• Ignoring blending steps: Blending part of the soup is key for creaminess. Don’t skip this step; it enhances texture without adding dairy.
• Not letting kale wilt: Adding kale at the end is essential for proper texture. Allow it to simmer briefly so it softens without losing its vibrant color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding more broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Tuscan white bean soup special?

Tuscan white bean soup is special due to its rich flavors from fresh ingredients like kale, carrots, and spices that create a hearty yet healthy dish.

Can I customize my Tuscan white bean soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Try adding spinach or using vegetable broth for a stronger flavor.

Is Tuscan white bean soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein from beans, fiber from vegetables, and is low in calories, making it a nutritious option for any meal.

How do I store leftovers of Tuscan white bean soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan white bean soup is not just delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Whether served alone or with hearty bread, this recipe promises warmth and satisfaction. Give it a try today!

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Tuscan White Bean Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Tuscan white bean soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish that brings the heart of Italy to your table. This one-pot wonder combines creamy cannellini beans, fresh kale, and aromatic herbs for a rich, satisfying experience. Perfect for meal prep, this vegan and gluten-free soup is not only easy to make but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with rustic gluten-free bread or as a standalone meal, this soup is sure to warm your soul and delight your taste buds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cans cannellini beans
• 1 yellow onion
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large carrots
• 1 stalk celery
• 1/3 cup white apple vinegar
• 2 cups chopped kale
• Vegetable or chicken broth (2.5 – 4 cups)
• Tomato paste
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes
• Italian seasoning
• Bay leaves
• Dried thyme
• Dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until browned.
2. Add minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots; sauté for about 10 minutes until softened.
3. Pour in white apple vinegar; cook until most liquid evaporates (about 5 minutes).
4. Mix in all remaining ingredients except kale; stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer on low for about 15 minutes.
6. Discard bay leaves and blend part of the soup until smooth (about 2.5 to 3 cups).
7. Return blended mixture to the pot; stir in chopped kale and simmer briefly until wilted.
8. Serve warm with optional garnishes.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Customize with additional veggies or spices based on your preference. For deeper flavor, use homemade broth instead of store-bought.