Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the soul and fills the belly, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that I find myself turning to time and again, especially on busy weeknights or when I want to impress friends at a cozy gathering. The combination of creamy cannellini beans, hearty kale, and fragrant herbs makes this soup incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for everyone at the table!

What truly makes this soup special is how easy it is to prepare. Everything cooks in a single pot, which means less cleanup for you and more time to enjoy the delicious results. So grab your favorite rustic bread, and let’s dive into this wholesome recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Meal: This recipe simplifies dinner prep with just one pot needed.
• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with protein from the beans and vitamins from the kale, it’s a healthy choice.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy texture, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch at once; it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a flavorful experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Tuscan White Bean Soup features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

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 grape juice
• 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

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Add Extra Veggies: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
• Boost Protein: Stir in some cooked quinoa or lentils for an extra protein kick.
• Make it Creamy: Blend in some coconut milk or a splash of non-dairy cream for a richer texture.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like basil or parsley for a unique twist on flavor.

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. Cook until it begins to brown slightly. This step is crucial because browning the onions enhances their sweetness and builds a solid flavor base for your soup.

Step 2: Add More Veggies

Once your onions are golden, add minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Continue sautéing for about 10 minutes until everything softens and takes on a lovely color. This combination of vegetables adds depth to your soup!

Step 3: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Pour in the white grape juice and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated—about five minutes. This deglazing step helps lift all those tasty bits off the bottom of the pot, infusing your soup with even more flavor.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all remaining ingredients except for the kale. Stir everything well to combine. Depending on how thick you want your soup, start with 2 1/2 cups of broth—remember that you can always add more later!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil before covering it and reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

Discard the bay leaves once done simmering, then transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups of soup into a blender. Blend until smooth—this will add creaminess while keeping some texture in your soup.

Step 7: Combine Back into Pot

Pour the blended mixture back into your pot. If it’s too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to stir in additional broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Kale

Finally, stir in the chopped kale and let it simmer for just a few more minutes until wilted. Taste your creation; feel free to adjust salt and pepper levels as needed—and maybe add a squeeze of lemon juice if you’re feeling fancy!

Step 9: Serve Warm

Serve your delicious Tuscan White Bean Soup warm on its own or alongside hearty bread for dipping. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup

Making Tuscan white bean soup is a breeze, but a few simple tips can elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color and texture to your soup. Whenever possible, opt for organic produce to maximize taste and nutrition.

• Adjust broth for consistency: Depending on your preference for thickness, you can start with less broth and gradually add more until you reach your desired consistency. This way, you have full control over the final texture of your soup.

• Blend it up: If you want a creamier soup, blending part of the mixture gives it a silky texture while still retaining some chunky veggies. It’s a great way to balance heartiness with smoothness!

• Don’t skip the seasoning: Taste as you go! Every ingredient will affect the overall flavor, so don’t hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or other spices according to your palate. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten everything up beautifully.

• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. If you’re meal prepping, consider making a double batch and storing in individual portions for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serving this delicious Tuscan white bean soup is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of chopped herbs adds a pop of color and freshness, complementing the rich flavors of the soup.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle on top before serving enhances both flavor and presentation, making your bowl look inviting.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side so diners can squeeze fresh juice over their bowls for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

• Rustic gluten-free bread: Perfect for dipping! A crusty loaf or gluten-free option elevates the meal and adds satisfying texture.
• Simple green salad: A refreshing mix of greens like arugula or spinach tossed with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup and balances its richness.
• Grilled vegetable skewers: Lightly charred seasonal vegetables bring an additional layer of flavor to your meal. Plus, they’re colorful and fun!
• Quinoa salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon dressing complements the soup nicely while keeping things light.

Enjoy crafting your cozy bowl of Tuscan white bean soup! The comforting flavors paired with thoughtful garnishes and sides make for an unforgettable meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan white bean soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also stores beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Pour any leftover soup into an airtight container.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
• You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Tuscan white bean soup!

Can I make Tuscan white bean soup with other beans?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, feel free to substitute with navy beans or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.

How do I store Tuscan white bean soup leftovers?

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days!

Is Tuscan white bean soup gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free bread if you want a tasty dipping option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this hearty Tuscan white bean soup as much as I do! It’s not only comforting and packed with nutrients, but it’s also versatile enough to adapt to your taste. Whether you whip it up for yourself or share it with loved ones, this recipe is bound to bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking!