Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping, it’s packed with protein and bursting with flavor. The combination of cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and herbs creates a rich and satisfying soup that everyone will love. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Meal: This recipe simplifies cooking by using just one pot, making clean-up a breeze.
• Flavorful & Hearty: The mix of garlic, onions, and spices creates a depth of flavor that will warm your soul.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. It stores well in the fridge or freezer!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the beans and nutrients from the kale, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main dish or a side. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Tuscan white bean soup effectively, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This is crucial for sautéing vegetables evenly and simmering the soup without mess.
• Blender: A blender helps achieve the perfect creamy texture by pureeing part of the soup smoothly.

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.

• 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

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it begins to brown slightly.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the onion is slightly browned:
* Add in minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots.
* Sauté for an additional 10 minutes until the veggies soften and develop more color.

Step 3: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar:
* Stir often until most of the liquid has evaporated—about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for kale:
* Stir well to combine everything in your pot.
* Start with 2 1/2 cups of broth; you can adjust later.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring your mixture to a boil:
* Once boiling, cover and reduce heat to low. Allow it to 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 soup into a blender.
* Blend until smooth then return it back to the pot.

Step 7: Adjust Consistency

If your soup is too thick:
* Add more broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Incorporate Kale

Finally, add in the chopped kale:
* Let simmer for a few more minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—adding salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.

Step 9: Serve

Serve warm:
You can enjoy this soup as is or pair it with hearty bread on the side. Enjoy!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Rustic Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A fresh, crusty baguette pairs wonderfully with the soup for dipping.
• Gluten-Free Bread – For those avoiding gluten, try a rustic gluten-free bread to complement the flavors.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves – A few basil leaves can enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.

With a Splash of Citrus

• Lemon Wedge – Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to add a zesty kick to their soup.
• Lime Juice – A drizzle of lime juice can brighten up the flavors even more.

As a Starter

• Small Bowl Servings – Serve in small bowls as an appetizer before the main course for added elegance.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

To achieve the best version of tuscan white bean soup, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh veggies and herbs boost flavor significantly.
• Adjust Broth Amount – Start with less broth; you can always add more for desired consistency.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
• Blend for Creaminess – Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without dairy.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for an hour enhances the flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Pairing side dishes with tuscan white bean soup can make your meal feel complete. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting dish.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich soup.
2. Simple Salad – A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances out the hearty soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Stuffed peppers provide a filling option alongside the soup.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad gives an extra protein boost while keeping it healthy.
6. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can be a delightful addition, offering creamy contrasts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tuscan white bean soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic properly can lead to a lack of flavor in your soup. Take the time to brown them well for a richer taste.

• Not adjusting broth quantity: Using too much or too little broth can affect the soup’s consistency. Start with 2 1/2 cups and add more if needed until you reach your desired thickness.

• Overcooking the kale: Adding kale too early can result in mushy greens. Add it toward the end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and texture.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Seasoning is key! After blending, always taste and adjust salt, pepper, or acid like lemon juice to enhance flavors.

• Using canned beans without rinsing: Not rinsing canned beans can add extra sodium and affect the soup’s flavor. Always drain and rinse them thoroughly before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Tuscan white bean soup will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.

• Microwave: Pour soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add broth if it seems too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Tuscan white bean soup last?

Tuscan white bean soup lasts about 4-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I freeze Tuscan white bean soup?

Yes, you can freeze this soup! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and it will last for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with Tuscan white bean soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with rustic bread or a side salad. You can also enjoy it on its own!

Is Tuscan white bean soup healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein from the beans and is low in calories while being rich in fiber. It’s a great option for a nutritious meal.

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or swap out kale for spinach based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan white bean soup is not only delicious but also versatile and nutritious. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s perfect for any day of the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!