Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a gathering, this hearty soup is sure to impress. Packed with protein and vibrant veggies, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be made in just one pot, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup.
• Flavorful & Healthy: With a mix of beans, vegetables, and herbs, each bowl is bursting with flavor while being low in calories.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the soup by adding your favorite greens or spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: This recipe meets various dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch at the start of the week for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience as smooth as possible, gather these essential tools before you begin.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides enough space for all ingredients to cook evenly and allows for proper simmering.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

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 Base:

• 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

For Flavor:

• 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

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion.
– Sauté until the onion begins to brown slightly.
– Incorporate minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots.
– Continue sautéing for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and develop a bit of color.

Step 2: Add Vinegar

Once the vegetables are ready:
– Pour in the white apple vinegar.
– Sauté until most of the liquid has evaporated, which should take around 5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add all remaining ingredients except for kale into the pot:
– Choose between vegetable or chicken broth based on what you have available.
– Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil:
– Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce heat to low.
– Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Blend Half of the Soup

After simmering:
– Discard bay leaves from the soup.
– Transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups of soup into a blender.
– Blend until smooth and then return it back into the pot.

Step 6: Adjust Consistency & Add Kale

If you find the soup too thick:
– Gradually add more broth until reaching your desired thickness.
Then add:
– The finely chopped kale into the blended mixture.
– Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until the kale wilts.

Step 7: Final Touches & Serve

Taste your soup before serving:
– Adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper as needed.
Serve warm on its own or with hearty bread on the side. 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 are serving it as an appetizer or a main course, there are plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal. Here are some suggestions for serving this hearty soup.

With Rustic Bread

• A thick slice of crusty gluten-free bread pairs perfectly with the soup for dipping, adding texture and flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top just before serving for an added burst of freshness and color.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavors and adds richness to the dish.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the meal.

Accompanied by Grated Cheese

• For those who enjoy cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or a plant-based alternative on top for extra creaminess.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

To make your Tuscan white bean soup truly stand out, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure a flavorful and satisfying result.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs elevate the flavor profile significantly, so opt for what’s in season.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to preference.
• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without added dairy.
• Experiment with greens: While kale is traditional, try spinach or Swiss chard for a different twist on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Pairing side dishes with Tuscan white bean soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options that complement this flavorful soup well.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, perfect for soaking up the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a sweet contrast and healthy addition to your meal.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers protein and balances the heartiness of the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables make for a filling accompaniment.
5. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing, grilled cheese sandwiches can be made gluten-free for dipping delight.
6. Crispy Polenta Fries: Polenta fries add a unique texture and flavor while still being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan white bean soup, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic properly can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Make sure to allow them to brown slightly for maximum taste.
• Not adjusting broth quantity: Using too much or too little broth can affect the soup’s consistency. Start with less broth and add more as needed for your desired texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! You may need to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• Overcooking the kale: Adding the kale too early can result in mushy greens. Stir it in just a few minutes before serving to keep its vibrant color and texture.
• Forgetting about the bay leaves: Remember to remove bay leaves before serving. They are not edible and can spoil the dining experience if left in.
• Using canned beans without rinsing: Not rinsing canned beans can lead to excess sodium and an unappetizing flavor. Be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Tuscan white bean soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer individual servings into microwave-safe bowls. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions that often arise when preparing Tuscan white bean soup:

Can I use different types of beans for Tuscan White Bean Soup?

You can substitute cannellini beans with other white beans like navy or great northern beans if desired.

How do I make Tuscan White Bean Soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it and then stir it back into the pot. This creates a creamy texture without adding dairy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Tuscan white bean soup is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and flavors deepen after sitting.

What can I serve with Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Pair this hearty soup with rustic bread, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes! Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers based on your preference.

How spicy is this Tuscan White Bean Soup?

This soup has a mild spice level due to red pepper flakes. You can adjust or omit them depending on your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan white bean soup is not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. It’s packed with protein from beans and loaded with nutrients from vegetables like kale. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or spices! Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy meals or meal prep!