Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is a warm, hearty dish that brings together rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup is both vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs. With its protein-packed beans and vibrant kale, it’s not only delicious but also nourishing. Pair it with rustic bread for a satisfying meal that you can enjoy any day of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: This recipe is made in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze!
• Meal Prep Friendly: It’s easy to make ahead of time and tastes even better the next day.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with fiber and protein from cannellini beans and kale, it’s a healthy choice.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The combination of herbs and spices creates a depth of flavor that will warm your soul.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or a side dish, perfect for any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this Tuscan white bean soup requires some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment on hand can make a significant difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup evenly.
• Blender: Used to create a creamy texture by blending part of the soup until smooth.

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 (I used pinot grigio)
• 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

For the Greens

• 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed, finely chopped)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
1. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it starts to brown slightly.
2. Once browned, mix in garlic, celery, and carrot.
3. Continue sautéing for about 10 minutes until all veggies soften.

Step 2: Deglaze with Vinegar

Add the white apple vinegar to the pot.
– Sauté until most of the liquid has evaporated, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

In this step, you will add all remaining ingredients except for the kale.
– Stir well to combine everything thoroughly.
– Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Once boiling:
– Cover the pot and reduce heat to low.
– Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Part of the Soup

After simmering:
– Discard bay leaves from the pot.
– Transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups worth of soup to a blender.
– Blend until smooth.

Step 6: Mix Everything Together

Return the blended mixture back into the pot:
– Stir well to combine everything again.
– If your soup is too thick, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Add Kale

Finally:
– Stir in the chopped kale.
– Allow it to simmer for an additional few minutes so that it wilts nicely.

Step 8: Final Adjustments

Taste your soup:
– Adjust flavors as needed; typically adding more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice works wonders.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Serve your Tuscan white bean soup warm as is or alongside hearty bread. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is not only hearty but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Rustic Bread

• A thick slice of crusty, gluten-free bread for dipping adds texture and makes the meal more filling.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for an aromatic finish that brightens the flavors.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can elevate the taste and add a refreshing acidity.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup nicely.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances flavor and adds a luxurious touch to each bowl.

Garnish with Croutons

• Crispy homemade or store-bought croutons provide a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the soup’s creaminess.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

Perfecting this Tuscan white bean soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out just right.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality cannellini beans and fresh vegetables for the best taste and nutrition.
• Control Broth Consistency: Adjust the amount of broth based on your desired thickness; start with less and add more as needed.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavors, so don’t rush this step.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding back in; this creates a rich consistency without dairy.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices or add others like smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

A delicious side dish can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that pair well with Tuscan white bean soup.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil dressed in balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized make for a nutritious and flavorful side.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides a nutritious boost and texture contrast.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese adds richness that pairs beautifully with the soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and herbs create a hearty addition to your meal.
7. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage offers freshness and crunch against the warm soup.
8. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic choice that kids will love; it’s warm, gooey, and perfect for dipping!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tuscan white bean soup is simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the veggies: Sautéing your onions, garlic, and other vegetables for too long can lead to mushy textures. Aim for a tender crunch to maintain flavor.
• Ignoring the broth amount: Using too much or too little broth can affect the soup’s consistency. Start with 2 1/2 cups and adjust as needed for your preferred thickness.
• Skipping the blending step: Blending part of the soup adds creaminess without dairy. Don’t skip this step; it significantly enhances texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: After cooking, always taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, or acidity. This final touch elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Forgetting about freshness: Adding kale at the end is crucial for freshness. If you add it too early, it may lose its vibrant color and nutritional value.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Let the soup cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this Tuscan white bean soup spicier?

You can increase the red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I use different beans for this recipe?

Yes! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute with other white beans like navy or great northern beans if desired.

What can I serve alongside Tuscan white bean soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, salad, or grilled vegetables. It’s versatile enough for any side dish!

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

Stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan white bean soup is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner. Feel free to customize it by adding seasonal vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your taste! Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!