Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan White Bean Soup is a delightful dish that brings the essence of Italian comfort food to your kitchen. Perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping, this soup is not only vegan and gluten-free but also packed with protein. Its rich, hearty flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet dinner at home. Pair it with rustic gluten-free bread for an extra touch of warmth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe simplifies cooking by using just one pot, making clean-up a breeze.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with cannellini beans and kale, this soup is high in protein and fiber.
• Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand!
• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in no time.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—it’s just as delicious reheated!

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Tuscan white bean soup, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will 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: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while providing plenty of space for all ingredients.
• Blender: Essential for achieving that 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.

• 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 Vegetables

Start by sautéing the finely chopped onion in a large pot or Dutch oven with olive oil.

Step 2: Add More Veggies

Once the onion starts to brown slightly, add in minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Sauté them together for about ten minutes until softened.

Step 3: Incorporate Vinegar

Next, stir in the white apple vinegar. Continue sautéing until most of the liquid evaporates—this should take about five minutes.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all remaining ingredients except for kale. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring your mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover it and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about fifteen minutes.

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

After simmering, discard bay leaves. Transfer about two and a half to three cups worth of soup into a blender. Blend until smooth.

Step 7: Combine Blended Soup Back In

Return the blended soup back to the pot and stir well. If it’s too thick for your liking, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Kale

Finally, add in the chopped kale. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until wilted. Taste your soup; adjust salt and pepper as needed, maybe even adding a squeeze of lemon juice.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Serve your hearty Tuscan white bean soup warm as-is or alongside some rustic bread. Enjoy!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan white bean soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or a more elaborate presentation, there are plenty of options to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Rustic Loaf – Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread complements the creamy texture of the soup.
• Garlic Bread – Toast some bread with garlic and olive oil for an extra flavor boost alongside your soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves – Add torn basil leaves to enhance the Mediterranean flavor profile.

Accompanied by Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad – Pairing with a classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that contrasts beautifully.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

Creating the perfect Tuscan white bean soup involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality beans will make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Broth Amount – Start with less broth and add more as needed; this allows you to control the thickness of the soup.
• Season Gradually – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices throughout cooking for balanced flavors.
• Blend Wisely – For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup, but leave some chunks for added heartiness.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Pairing side dishes with Tuscan white bean soup can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks – Soft and cheesy, these sticks are perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Roasted Vegetable Platter – Seasonal veggies roasted until crispy add both color and nutrition.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed salad with herbs and lemon that complements the soup’s flavors well.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and cheese offer a hearty side option.
6. Cornbread Muffins – Slightly sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan white bean soup, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes people make and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the onions and garlic helps build flavor. Don’t rush this process; it enhances the overall taste of your soup.

• Using canned beans without rinsing: Rinsing canned beans removes excess salt and preserves. Always drain and rinse your beans before adding them to the soup.

• Overcooking the kale: Kale can become mushy if overcooked. Add it in the last few minutes of cooking to keep its texture and vibrant color.

• Not adjusting seasoning: Every ingredient varies in flavor. Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed for balance.

• Ignoring broth quantity: The amount of broth affects the soup’s consistency. Start with less broth and add more gradually until you achieve your desired thickness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Tuscan white bean soup in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for best results.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Tuscan white bean soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day as flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep.

What can I use instead of cannellini beans?

You can substitute other white beans like navy beans or great northern beans if cannellini beans are unavailable.

Is this Tuscan white bean soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.

How do I customize my Tuscan white bean soup?

Feel free to add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also incorporate herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

Tuscan white bean soup is a hearty and nourishing dish that is both easy to prepare and versatile. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it truly your own. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its comforting warmth!

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