Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty dish that warms the soul, then this Tuscan White Bean Soup is just what you need! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s not only incredibly easy to make but also packed with flavors that remind me of comforting family meals. Whether you’re coming in from a chilly day or hosting a gathering, this soup brings everyone together with its deliciousness and warmth. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, making it great for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup means more time enjoying your meal.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is as nutritious as it is tasty!
• Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it on a casual night or at a dinner party; it fits right in!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Tuscan White Bean Soup features simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create a comforting bowl of goodness.

For the Soup

• 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 broth
• 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

The beauty of this Tuscan White Bean Soup lies in its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Switch Up the Greens: If kale isn’t your favorite, spinach or Swiss chard work wonderfully too.
• Make It Creamy: For a creamier soup, blend more of the beans into a smooth consistency before serving.
• Spice It Up: Add in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick!

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by sautéing the finely chopped onion in olive oil over medium heat. This step is essential because caramelizing the onions enhances their sweetness and lays the flavor foundation for your soup. Once they begin to brown slightly, it’s time to add in the garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook these together for about 10 minutes until they soften and develop even more flavor.

Step 2: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Next, pour in the white grape juice. This not only adds a hint of sweetness but also helps lift those delicious browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Keep cooking until most of the liquid evaporates—around five minutes should do the trick!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all remaining ingredients except for the kale. Give everything a good stir! Bring this mixture to a boil before covering and reducing the heat. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes; this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld perfectly.

Step 4: Blend for Texture

After simmering, discard the bay leaves and carefully transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups worth of soup into a blender. Blend until smooth—this creates a nice creamy texture while leaving some chunks behind for heartiness. Return this blended mixture back to the pot and mix well. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Finish with Kale

Finally, stir in your chopped kale and let it simmer for just a few more minutes until wilted. Taste your soup again—this is where you can adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice if you’re feeling fancy!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve your Tuscan White Bean Soup warm on its own or alongside some rustic gluten-free bread for dipping. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup

Creating a delicious Tuscan white bean soup is a breeze with a few handy tips! Here are some pro suggestions to elevate your cooking experience:

• Choose the right beans: Opt for high-quality cannellini beans for their creamy texture and mild flavor. Canned beans save time, but if you’re up for it, soaking and cooking dried beans can enhance the dish even more.

• Don’t skip the browning: Allowing the onions, carrots, and celery to brown slightly adds depth and richness to your soup. This step creates a flavorful base that makes each spoonful satisfying.

• Adjust liquid wisely: Start with 2 1/2 cups of broth and adjust as needed. Depending on how thick you like your soup, you can always add more liquid later, ensuring it’s just right for your taste.

• Incorporate fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley added at the end can brighten the flavors tremendously. A touch of freshness balances the hearty beans and greens beautifully!

• Refrigerate overnight: If possible, let your soup sit in the fridge overnight before serving. The flavors will meld together even more, making it extra delicious when you reheat it!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serving Tuscan white bean soup is all about enhancing its comforting qualities while making it visually appealing. Here are some ideas to present this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped herbs add a pop of color and freshness that brightens the rich flavors of the soup.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A small drizzle right before serving enhances the taste and gives a lovely sheen to your dish.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest provides a citrusy note that complements the earthiness of the beans.

Side Dishes

• Rustic gluten-free bread: Perfect for dipping! A hearty slice of gluten-free bread brings warmth and texture to your meal.
• Simple salad: A mixed greens salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add another layer of flavor while keeping things simple yet satisfying.
• Grilled polenta slices: These crispy bites are not only tasty but also perfect for scooping up that delicious Tuscan white bean soup!

Enjoy every comforting bite of this wonderful Tuscan white bean soup alongside these delightful accompaniments!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan white bean soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy the flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Add a splash of broth if the soup is too thick when reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful Tuscan white bean soup.

Can I make Tuscan white bean soup without kale?

Absolutely! You can omit the kale or substitute it with spinach for a different flavor profile.

How long does Tuscan white bean soup last in the fridge?

Tuscan white bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when kept in an airtight container.

What can I serve with Tuscan white bean soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with rustic gluten-free bread, a fresh salad, or even over rice for a complete meal.

Can I use other beans in my Tuscan white bean soup?

While cannellini beans are traditional, you can certainly try other types of beans like navy beans or great northern beans!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Tuscan white bean soup as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends and family, its rich flavors are sure to please. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to let me know how yours turns out!