If you’re looking for a soup that’s both comforting and packed with rustic Italian flavors, Tuscan White Bean Soup is an ideal choice. This recipe combines creamy white beans, tender vegetables, and a rich broth with Tuscan herbs, making it a warm, hearty option that’s surprisingly simple to make. Known for its nourishing ingredients, this soup is also an excellent source of protein and fiber, making it as healthy as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or preparing a make-ahead meal, Tuscan White Bean Soup is a nourishing and satisfying option for any day of the week.
This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a flavorful, filling, and healthy meal. Plus, it’s naturally vegan (if you skip the Parmesan) and can easily be adjusted for gluten-free diets, making it versatile for a wide range of dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Tuscan White Bean Soup
- Simple, wholesome ingredients with no heavy cream or complicated steps.
- High in fiber and protein from white beans, so it’s filling and nutritious.
- Easy to customize with added greens, herbs, or different types of beans.
- Meal-prep and freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it for days.
Ingredients for Tuscan White Bean Soup
This recipe uses basic ingredients often found in Italian cooking, delivering classic flavors in every spoonful.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (or 3 cups cooked white beans if using dried)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes (fire-roasted adds extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups kale or spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for a fresh, bright finish)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Ladle for serving
- Sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup
Follow these simple steps to bring this delicious soup together in less than an hour.
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5–7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, or until fragrant.
2. Add Herbs, Tomatoes, and Broth
Stir in the dried rosemary, thyme, sage, and bay leaf, cooking for a minute to bloom the flavors. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and vegetable broth. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Add the White Beans
Once the soup is simmering, add the cannellini beans. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can mash a portion of the beans with a fork before adding them to the pot. This will give the soup a thicker, richer texture while still keeping it dairy-free.
4. Simmer the Soup
Cover and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add Greens and Finish with Lemon
In the last few minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook until wilted. Remove the bay leaf, then add a splash of lemon juice for a burst of brightness and freshness.
6. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve with crusty bread on the side.
Tips for the Best Tuscan White Bean Soup
- For added creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before adding the greens. This step will thicken the broth naturally.
- Adjust the herbs to your preference. Fresh herbs can also be used if you have them on hand; just increase the amount slightly.
- Use quality vegetable broth for the best flavor, as it forms the base of the soup.
- To make it even heartier, add diced potatoes, cooked sausage, or orzo pasta.
Recipe Variations
- Add Italian sausage: For a meaty version, brown some Italian sausage in the pot before adding the vegetables. It’ll bring a rich, savory depth to the soup.
- Switch up the greens: Substitute kale or spinach with Swiss chard or arugula for a peppery twist.
- Different beans: While cannellini beans are traditional, you can use navy beans or Great Northern beans if that’s what you have on hand.
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring a bit of heat.
Storing and Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup
Refrigerator
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.
Freezer
This soup freezes very well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stovetop.
FAQs for Tuscan White Bean Soup
Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
A: Absolutely! Cook 1 cup of dried white beans (like cannellini or Great Northern) according to package instructions, then use them in the recipe.
Q: Is there a way to make this soup even creamier without blending?
A: Try adding a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream toward the end of cooking. This will make the soup rich without using dairy.
Q: Can I use frozen greens?
A: Yes, frozen spinach or kale can work well. Just add it straight from the freezer in the last few minutes of cooking.
Q: Can I add pasta to this soup?
A: Definitely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo work well. Cook them separately and add them in at the end to keep them from absorbing too much broth.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Tuscan White Bean Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are some ideas for pairing:
- Sides: Serve with crusty Italian bread, garlic bread, or rosemary focaccia for dipping.
- Salads: A simple side salad with arugula, shaved Parmesan, and a balsamic vinaigrette would complement the soup beautifully.
- Wine Pairing: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red such as Chianti.
Final Thoughts About Tuscan White Bean Soup
Tuscan White Bean Soup brings the comforting flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. With its hearty beans, tender greens, and fragrant herbs, it’s a filling yet light meal that’s ideal for any night of the week. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your favorite ingredients or dietary needs.
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