Tuscan White Bean Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A hearty and comforting soup that brings the flavors of Tuscany to your table.
This Tuscan White Bean Soup is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for any season. Packed with nutritious ingredients, it's not only delicious but also healthy!
Why You'll Love This Soup
- A rich and savory flavor profile that warms the soul
- Packed with protein and fiber from the white beans
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner
A Taste of Tuscany
Tuscan cuisine is renowned for its rustic and wholesome ingredients, and this Tuscan White Bean Soup embodies that tradition beautifully. With its roots in the heart of Italy, this soup is a celebration of simple yet bold flavors. The white beans serve as the star of the dish, providing a creamy texture and a rich source of protein, making it a filling option for any meal.
The combination of fresh vegetables like onion, carrots, and celery not only adds depth but also infuses the soup with vibrant colors. When you take a spoonful of this dish, you’ll be transported to the sun-soaked hills of Tuscany, where the air is filled with the aroma of hearty, home-cooked meals.
Health Benefits of White Beans
White beans are often celebrated for their numerous health benefits, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. They are rich in protein and fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. This is particularly beneficial for those on vegetarian or vegan diets, as beans are a fantastic plant-based protein source.
Additionally, white beans are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and potassium. Incorporating them into your diet can support heart health, aid digestion, and promote overall wellness. So not only is this soup delicious, but it also contributes to your health in meaningful ways.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner for your family or hosting a cozy gathering with friends, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is an ideal choice. Its straightforward preparation makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while its rich flavors will impress even the most discerning palates. You can easily double the recipe to serve a crowd or to have leftovers for the week.
This soup is also versatile; it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal. Additionally, it freezes well, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of Tuscany whenever you desire. Just reheat and garnish with fresh parsley for a quick and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Enjoy this hearty soup with crusty bread!
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Add Garlic and Herbs
Add the minced garlic, oregano, and thyme, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
Stir in the white beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Tips for the Best Soup
To enhance the flavors of your Tuscan White Bean Soup, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. These additions can elevate the dish even further, creating a more complex flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds.
For a richer texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender. This will give the soup a creamy consistency while still leaving some whole beans intact for that satisfying bite. Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more broth or water as needed.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your Tuscan White Bean Soup, consider adding a dollop of pesto or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor. These toppings not only enhance the taste but also add an appealing visual element to your dish.
Pair the soup with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to create a comforting meal. A glass of robust red wine can also complement the flavors beautifully, making it a perfect accompaniment for a cozy dinner with loved ones.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Just make sure to soak and cook them beforehand.
→ What can I add for extra protein?
You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or even some quinoa for extra protein.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Tuscan White Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that brings the flavors of Tuscany to your table.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the minced garlic, oregano, and thyme, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the white beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 15g