Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and nourishing dish that warms both your heart and stomach, you’ll love this Tuscan White Bean Soup. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years. It’s one of those meals that brings the family together, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering. The blend of flavors from the fresh ingredients makes it truly special, and trust me, it’s hard to resist a big bowl of this hearty soup paired with some crusty bread for dipping.

What makes this Tuscan White Bean Soup even better is how simple it is to whip up! With just one pot and straightforward steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously filling meal in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup comes together quickly in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with protein from cannellini beans and loaded with veggies, it’s as healthy as it is tasty.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch at the start of the week so you have delicious lunches ready to go!
• Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spices and greens to fit your tastes; cater it to what you have on hand.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is always a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this comforting soup! Each element plays its part in making this dish an absolute delight.

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 grape juice
• 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed, finely chopped)
• 2 1/2 – 4 cups vegetable 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

Variations

The beauty of this Tuscan White Bean Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have at home.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make It Spicy: If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or even some diced jalapeños!
• Incorporate Other Veggies: Zucchini or bell peppers can be great additions for extra texture.
• Creamy Option: Blend in some coconut milk for a creamy twist that adds richness without dairy.

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they begin to brown slightly. This step is essential because browning brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth of flavor to your soup.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Other Veggies

Once the onions are golden, toss in the minced garlic along with the diced celery and chopped carrots. Sauté these together for about 10 minutes. This helps soften the vegetables while developing rich flavors from browning—trust me; your kitchen will smell divine!

Step 3: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Pour in the white grape juice next. Let it cook down until most of the liquid evaporates—this should take around 5 minutes. This step not only enhances flavor but also lifts any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of your pot.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now, add all remaining ingredients except for the kale into your pot. Stir everything well! Depending on how thick you want your soup, start with 2 1/2 cups of broth. Bring it all to a boil before covering and lowering the heat to let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Some of the Soup

After simmering, remove those bay leaves and scoop out about 2 1/2 to 3 cups of soup into a blender. Blend until smooth—this creates a nice creamy base while still keeping some texture from the whole beans.

Step 6: Combine Back & Add Kale

Pour the blended soup back into your pot and mix everything together thoroughly. If it seems too thick, don’t hesitate to stir in more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, add in that beautiful chopped kale and let everything simmer together for another few minutes until wilted.

Step 7: Taste & Serve

Before serving, give it a taste! You might want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten everything up nicely! Serve warm alongside some hearty bread for dipping—enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup

Making a delicious Tuscan white bean soup is easy, but these pro tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs provide more flavor and nutrients than their dried or canned counterparts. This enhances the overall taste of your soup.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend more of the mixture into a creamy texture. For a thinner consistency, simply add extra broth. This allows you to customize the soup to your liking.

• Taste as you go: Regularly tasting your soup while it simmers helps you adjust seasonings like salt and pepper to perfect the flavor. A little adjustment can make a big difference!

• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for 30 minutes before serving can deepen its flavors. It gives time for the herbs and spices to meld beautifully.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs! A dash of smoked paprika or fresh basil could introduce a new layer of flavor that you’ll love.

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serving your Tuscan white bean soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows guests to add a splash of citrusy brightness when they serve themselves.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes as an optional garnish lets everyone tailor their bowl.

Side Dishes

• Rustic gluten-free bread: A hearty slice of gluten-free bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup without overwhelming it.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots provide a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
• Quinoa or brown rice: Adding some cooked quinoa or brown rice on the side offers an additional source of protein and pairs wonderfully with the hearty beans in the soup.

Enjoy creating and sharing this scrumptious Tuscan white bean soup with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan White Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weekdays. You can easily store it for later or even freeze portions for a quick meal on the go!

Storing Leftovers

• Cool the soup to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding extra broth if necessary.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short increments, stirring in between.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I substitute other beans for the cannellini beans in Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans provide a creamy texture, you can use navy beans or great northern beans as alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

How do I make Tuscan White Bean Soup creamier?

For a creamier soup, blend more of the soup mixture before combining it back into the pot. You can also add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of vegan sour cream when serving.

Is Tuscan White Bean Soup healthy?

Yes! This soup is packed with protein from the beans and loaded with vegetables, making it both nutritious and satisfying.

Can I add other vegetables to my Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so everything cooks evenly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Tuscan White Bean Soup! It’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether enjoyed on its own or alongside some crusty gluten-free bread, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and home. Don’t hesitate to try it out—happy cooking!