Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan white bean soup is a delightful blend of flavors, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. It’s not just comforting and hearty; it’s also vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein. Ideal for meal prep, this one-pot wonder serves as a wholesome lunch or dinner option. The savory ingredients meld beautifully, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Pair it with rustic gluten-free bread, and you have a meal that impresses!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This soup comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with protein and fiber from the beans and veggies, it’s a healthy choice for everyone.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter before your favorite meal.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Ingredients like garlic, thyme, and bay leaves add depth to every spoonful.

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Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essentials to make your Tuscan white bean soup experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Blender: Helps create that creamy texture by blending part of the soup smoothly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and precise cuts on your ingredients.

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.

Main Ingredients

• 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 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

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Saute the Onion

Start by sautéing the finely chopped onion in your large pot with olive oil until it turns golden brown.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once the onion is slightly browned, add the minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften.

Step 3: Deglaze with Vinegar

Add in the white apple vinegar. Sauté until most of the liquid evaporates, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Stir in all remaining ingredients except for the kale. Start with 2 1/2 cups of broth; you can always add more later if needed.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring everything to a boil. Then cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

Remove bay leaves. Transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups worth of the soup into a blender. Blend until smooth.

Step 7: Mix Back Into Pot

Pour the blended mixture back into the pot. Stir everything together thoroughly. If it’s too thick, add more broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Kale

Finally, stir in the chopped kale. Allow it to simmer for another few minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 9: Serve

Serve warm on its own or alongside hearty bread for dipping. Enjoy every bowl!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan white bean soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience and make the most of this hearty soup.

With Rustic Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Gluten-Free Bread: Pair your soup with a gluten-free loaf for those with dietary restrictions.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for added color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Add a few basil leaves for a hint of sweetness and aroma.

With a Side Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens complements the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: For a heartier option, a Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor and adds richness.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

To make your Tuscan white bean soup even better, consider these simple tips. They will help you elevate the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables like kale and carrots will add more flavor than canned or frozen.
• Adjust Broth Levels: Start with less broth and add more as needed to achieve your desired thickness.
• Incorporate Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors beautifully.
• Let It Sit: If possible, let the soup sit for a while before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serving side dishes along with Tuscan white bean soup can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers can add a delightful contrast in taste and texture.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness that complements the soup.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds protein and balances out the meal nicely.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers an indulgent touch that pairs well with the soup’s heartiness.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can introduce different textures and flavors to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan white bean soup, it’s easy to overlook some key aspects that can affect the final flavor and texture. Here are common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing onions and garlic first enhances the flavor of your soup. Don’t rush this part; it’s crucial for a rich taste.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. You may need to add salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for balance.
• Using too much broth: Start with less broth and adjust as needed. This prevents the soup from becoming too watery.
• Overcooking kale: Add kale towards the end of cooking. This keeps it vibrant and prevents it from losing its nutritional value.
• Ignoring leftovers: Leftover soup can taste even better! Store it properly to enjoy later.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Tuscan white bean soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions readers often have about making Tuscan white bean soup.

What beans can I use for Tuscan White Bean Soup?

While cannellini beans are traditional, you can also use navy beans or great northern beans as substitutes without affecting the flavor significantly.

Can I make Tuscan White Bean Soup ahead of time?

Yes! Making this soup ahead of time is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge or freezer and flavors deepen overnight.

Is Tuscan White Bean Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and serve it with gluten-free bread.

How can I customize my Tuscan White Bean Soup?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or include spices such as smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan white bean soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its hearty ingredients make it a comforting choice for any meal, while customization options allow you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today and discover how satisfying homemade soup can be!