If you’re looking for a comforting, nutritious, and delicious meal that can be whipped up in under an hour, look no further than Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup. This dish is a classic Italian-inspired recipe that marries hearty white beans with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, perfect for warming you up on a chilly day or making your week a little brighter.

Why Make This Recipe

Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup is packed with flavors and nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner. The creamy texture of the white beans combined with the tender vegetables creates a luscious broth that delights the taste buds. This soup is not only hearty and filling but also incredibly healthy, making it ideal for anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Preparing this delightful soup is simple and requires minimal effort. Follow these straightforward steps, and soon you’ll have a steaming pot of soup ready to enjoy.

Ingredients

1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
Olive oil for sautéing

Directions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the chopped kale or spinach and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.
Remove the bay leaf and serve hot, preferably with thick, crusty bread.

How to Serve Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serve this hearty soup in warm bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with thick, crusty bread or a side salad, making for a well-rounded meal that will satisfy your hunger.

How to Store Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it in individual portions. Just remember to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the pot after sautéing the vegetables.
Feel free to blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture or leave it chunky for a more rustic feel.
Experiment with different leafy greens or add zucchini for variety.

Variation

You can customize this soup by adding other seasonal vegetables such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even potatoes for added heartiness. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked sausage or chickpeas.

FAQs

Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Yes! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.

Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes! All of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Simply sauté the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.