Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty dish that warms your soul, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is just the ticket! With its rich flavors and comforting textures, it’s a recipe that I hold dear. This soup comes together easily in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a bowl (or two) without any worries!

This Tuscan White Bean Soup is not only delicious but also packed with protein from the beans and nutrients from the kale. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep; make a big batch on the weekend, and you’ll have satisfying lunches ready to go all week long. Serve it with some rustic gluten-free bread for dipping, and you’ve got yourself a delightful meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for even the busiest of days.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and protein-rich beans, this soup is as healthy as it is tasty.
• Versatile Meal Prep: Make a big pot to enjoy throughout the week; it’s great reheated!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this soup! It’s mild yet flavorful, appealing to even picky eaters.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of garlic, herbs, and creamy beans creates a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Tuscan White Bean Soup! You might already have many of these staples in your pantry.

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 (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

Variations

One of the best things about this Tuscan White Bean Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with what you have on hand or tailor it to your taste preferences.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard along with the kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Spice It Up: Want more heat? Add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• Change the Beans: While cannellini beans are my favorite for this recipe, you can also use navy beans or chickpeas if you prefer.
• Make It Creamy: For a creamier texture, blend in some coconut milk or cashew cream right before serving.

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it starts to brown slightly. This step is important because browning the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup. Once they’re golden, toss in the minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Sauté for another 10 minutes until everything softens and develops flavor.

Step 2: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Next up is adding that splash of white grape juice! Pour it into your pot and let it cook until most of the liquid has evaporated—about five minutes. This deglazing process helps lift those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, enriching your soup even further.

Step 3: Add Beans & Broth

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Stir in your drained cannellini beans along with all remaining ingredients except for the kale. Depending on how thick you’d like your soup to be, start by adding only 2 1/2 cups of broth. Give everything a good stir!

Step 4: Bring to a Simmer

Increase the heat until your soup reaches a boil. Then cover it up and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Blend for Creaminess

After simmering, remove those bay leaves from your pot—you don’t want anyone biting into one of those! Transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups of soup into a blender and blend until smooth. This step gives your soup that creamy texture while keeping some whole beans intact for heartiness.

Step 6: Combine & Finish

Pour that smooth mixture back into the pot with the remaining chunky soup. If you find it’s too thick for your liking, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Finally, stir in the chopped kale and let it simmer just long enough for it to wilt—about three minutes should do.

Step 7: Taste & Serve

Before serving up bowls of warmth, taste your creation! Adjust flavors as needed; I often add just a touch more salt or pepper along with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve warm alongside some hearty gluten-free bread for dipping. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup

Making a great Tuscan white bean soup is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your soup. Opt for vibrant, seasonal produce when possible to make the dish even more delightful.

• Adjust the broth: Start with less broth and add more as needed. This allows you to control the thickness of your soup, ensuring it’s just how you like it—whether you prefer a hearty stew or a lighter broth.

• Blend for creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without any dairy. It adds richness while maintaining that lovely rustic feel characteristic of Tuscan cuisine.

• Season to taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as you go! Tasting during cooking helps you achieve the perfect balance of flavors that suits your palate.

• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Allowing it to sit overnight lets the flavors meld beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serving your Tuscan white bean soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs adds color and a burst of freshness that complements the hearty beans.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a delightful zing.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their bowl.

Side Dishes

• Rustic gluten-free bread: A warm slice of crusty gluten-free bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up every delicious drop.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or zucchini provide a lovely complement to the soup’s flavors while adding extra nutrition.
• Quinoa or rice pilaf: A side of quinoa or rice pilaf can enhance this meal by adding more protein and fiber, making it even more satisfying.

Enjoy crafting not just a meal but an experience around this delicious Tuscan white bean soup! It’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan white bean soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool entirely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth if it has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Tuscan white bean soup!

Can I use dried beans instead of canned for Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Absolutely! If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the soup. Adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How can I make my Tuscan White Bean Soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker texture, blend a portion of the soup as described in the instructions. You can also add more beans or reduce the liquid during cooking.

What can I serve with Tuscan White Bean Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with rustic gluten-free bread, a fresh salad, or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Is Tuscan White Bean Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep as it stores well and tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Tuscan white bean soup finds a special place in your kitchen! It’s not only nourishing but also incredibly comforting, making it perfect for cozy dinners. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations with me. Happy cooking!