Name: Tuscan White Bean Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
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); ⅓ cup white wine (I used pinot grigio); 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed, finely chopped); 2 ½ - 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (see notes); 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (omit if you don't like spice); ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Introduction to Tuscan White Bean Soup

The Comfort of Homemade Soup

There's something incredibly soothing about a bowl of homemade soup, especially when it’s a hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup. As the weather turns cooler, this one-pot wonder not only warms you up but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients. Made with nutritious cannellini beans and an array of fresh vegetables, it's packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying choice for lunch or dinner.

What makes this soup truly delightful is its simplicity. With just a few easy steps, you can create a meal that's perfect for meal prep—ideal for busy young professionals. And if you’re a fan of dipping bread, you’re in for a treat! Pair this velvety soup with some rustic gluten-free bread for the ultimate experience.

Not only is it vegan and gluten-free, but this Tuscan White Bean Soup can also be customized to suit your taste. Want it thicker? Just use less broth. Prefer a more soupy texture? Add more. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug in a bowl. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Essential ingredients you'll need

To whip up a delicious bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what’s essential:

Cannellini Beans: Three cans of these creamy beans are the soup's heart.
Onion and Garlic: A yellow onion and four cloves of garlic will create a fragrant base.
Carrots and Celery: Freshly chopped carrots and celery add crunch and sweetness.
Kale: A couple of cups of chopped kale boost the nutrient factor while bringing that earthy flavor.
Broth: Either vegetable or chicken broth serves as the soup's foundation, providing depth.
Seasonings: Don’t skip the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and a bit of salt and pepper.

Optional add-ins for extra flavor

Want to elevate your Tuscan White Bean Soup? Here are some optional ingredients to consider:

Lemon Juice or Zest: A splash or zest at the end can brighten the flavors.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love a little kick, adding these can spice things up.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top before serving enhances the taste (vegan alternatives are available for those who prefer).
Herbs: Fresh thyme or basil can add a vibrant touch.

Feel free to mix and match! With these ingredients, your soup will be both comforting and nourishing. For more tips on ingredient substitutions, check out resources from Healthline and Food Network.

Preparing Tuscan White Bean Soup

Creating a delicious Tuscan White Bean Soup is not just about following a recipe; it’s an experience filled with aromatic scents, colorful vegetables, and hearty flavors. Let’s dive into the steps to make this one-pot wonder that’s perfect for meal prep and cozy evenings.

Get your veggies ready

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and chop your veggies. You’ll need a yellow onion, carrots, and celery. The combination of these vegetables forms a flavorful base for your soup. Peel and chop the carrots and dice the celery into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Once you have everything ready, you’re set for a smooth cooking process.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and let it sauté until it starts to turn golden. This step is crucial; browning the onions adds a depth of flavor to your Tuscan White Bean Soup. After about 5 minutes, toss in the minced garlic, chopped carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for another 10 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant—you’ll want to let those natural flavors develop!

Bring in the beans

Next, it’s time for the stars of the dish: the beans! Add 3 cans of rinsed and drained cannellini beans along with 2-4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth (start with 2 ½ cups for a thicker texture). Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), along with your dried herbs such as Italian seasoning, dried thyme, and oregano. For a truly authentic Tuscan flavor, let these ingredients mingle for a moment as they come together in your pot.

Simmer to perfection

Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 15 minutes. This gentle simmer helps all the flavors meld together beautifully, making for a rich and savory broth. Trust me; the enticing aroma wafting through your kitchen will be well worth the wait!

Blend for a creamy consistency

Once your soup has simmered, remove the bay leaves and ladle about 2 ½ to 3 cups of the soup into a blender. Blend until smooth, which adds a lovely creamy texture to your Tuscan White Bean Soup. If it’s too thick for your liking, simply stir in more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Add the kale and finalize flavors

Finally, stir in your chopped kale and let it cook for just a few more minutes until wilted. This not only adds a vibrant color but also nutritious greens to your soup. Taste your creation and feel free to adjust seasonings—sometimes a little more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon can elevate your soup even more.

And there you have it—a Tuscan White Bean Soup that’s hearty, healthy, and brimming with flavor! Serve it warm with some rustic bread for a truly comforting meal. Enjoy every spoonful!

Variations on Tuscan White Bean Soup

Spinach instead of kale

If you're not a fan of kale, don't worry! You can easily switch it out for fresh spinach in this Tuscan White Bean Soup. Spinach wilts beautifully and adds a mild, earthy flavor that's delicious. Just toss it in during the last few minutes of simmering for a quick and nutritious boost!

Adding grains for heartiness

For those colder nights or when you simply want a more filling meal, consider adding grains like quinoa, farro, or brown rice to your soup. They elevate the heartiness of the dish and provide extra fiber and nutrients. Just cook the grains separately and stir them in right before serving! This way, you'll create a satisfying and nourishing experience that keeps you warm and full. Happy cooking!

Cooking tips and notes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Optimal broth consistency

When making Tuscan White Bean Soup, the consistency of your broth is key. For a hearty, stew-like texture, start with about 2 ½ cups of broth. If you prefer a lighter soup, mix in up to 4 cups. It’s always easier to add more broth than to thicken it, so begin with less and adjust as needed.

Flavor adjustments and enhancements

Don’t hesitate to customize your Tuscan White Bean Soup! A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors, while a pinch of salt can enhance the dish's richness. Want to spice things up? A dash of red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick. Consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic boost. Looking for more tips on how to elevate your soup? Check out this helpful guide for additional inspiration!

Serving suggestions for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Ideal pairings with bread

When enjoying Tuscan White Bean Soup, consider pairing it with rustic bread for an authentic Italian experience. A slice of crusty, gluten-free bread like ciabatta or focaccia is perfect for scooping up every delicious spoonful. You might also try a warm baguette or even homemade garlic bread to elevate the meal.

Presentation tips for an inviting meal

To make your Tuscan White Bean Soup even more inviting, serve it in deep, wide bowls garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a touch of elegance, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavor. Accompany your soup with a colorful side salad for a well-rounded meal that looks as good as it tastes! Don't forget to set the table with your favorite utensils and maybe even a candle or two for that perfect cozy vibe.

Looking for some delicious bread options? Check out King Arthur Baking for gluten-free recipes!

Time breakdown for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Preparation time

Getting ready to whip up your Tuscan White Bean Soup takes about 20 minutes. This includes chopping your veggies and gathering ingredients, so you can dive right into the cooking process without any stress.

Cooking time

The cooking process adds another 30 minutes to your schedule. With the sautéing and simmering involved, you'll develop rich flavors that truly define this comforting dish.

Total time

All in all, you’re looking at a total of 50 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or whenever you're craving something wholesome and filling. Want to elevate your meal even more? Try pairing it with some fresh, rustic bread for dipping!

For more insights on meal prepping and other delicious recipes, check out resources from sites like Serious Eats or Minimalist Baker.

Nutritional Facts for Tuscan White Bean Soup

When you're diving into a comforting bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup, understanding its nutritional benefits adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Here's a quick look at what this delightful dish offers:

Calories

A serving of this soup contains approximately 221 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy choice for lunch or dinner that won't weigh you down.

Protein

Packed with about 15 grams of protein per serving, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is perfect for those looking to boost their protein intake, especially in a plant-based diet.

Fiber Content

Each bowl provides an impressive 14 grams of fiber, promoting healthy digestion and keeping you feeling full and satisfied longer.

Enjoying this soup not only warms you up, but it also takes care of your nutritional needs—making it a great option for meal prep or a cozy night in! For more information on the health benefits of beans, check out Healthline’s guide.

FAQs about Tuscan White Bean Soup

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making Tuscan White Bean Soup ahead of time can enhance its flavors. You can prepare it up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat when you're ready to enjoy.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers of this hearty soup is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a tightly sealed container. It will stay fresh in your refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. If you're planning on saving it for longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Yes, you can! Freezing is an excellent way to extend the life of your Tuscan White Bean Soup. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for a comforting meal anytime!

Conclusion on Tuscan White Bean Soup

In conclusion, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is a delightful addition to your meal prep rotation. Offering a cozy hug in a bowl, it’s full of nutrients and flavors that both satisfy and nourish. Enjoy it solo or with hearty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience!