Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, warm hug in a bowl, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel right at home, whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight. I love how it combines simple, wholesome ingredients to create something truly comforting. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for almost everyone at the table!

This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. You can make it in one pot, which means less mess and more time spent enjoying it with your loved ones. It’s perfect for meal prep too—make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers all week long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy cooking without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Everything comes together beautifully in one pot!
• Family-Friendly: This soup appeals to everyone, from kids to adults. Its rich flavors will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time, and you’ll have quick lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week.
• Packed with Nutrients: With its hearty beans and kale, this soup is loaded with protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sautéed vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a mouthwatering depth of flavor that you’ll love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Tuscan White Bean Soup, you’ll need some simple yet wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather these essentials:

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 and tailor it to your taste.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard for added nutrients and color.
• Change Up the Beans: Use other types of beans like navy beans or chickpeas for a different texture.
• Make It Creamy: Blend in some coconut milk or cashew cream for a richer soup.
• Top It Off: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor.

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it begins to brown slightly. This step is important because browning the onion brings out its natural sweetness, setting a delicious foundation for your soup.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once your onions are looking golden, toss in the minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Continue to sauté for about 10 minutes until these veggies soften and develop some color. The browning adds depth of flavor that makes this soup irresistible!

Step 3: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Next up, pour in the white grape juice. This step might seem unusual but trust me—it helps lift all those browned bits off the bottom while adding a sweet tanginess. Sauté until most of the liquid has evaporated—about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all remaining ingredients except for the kale! Stir everything together well; I recommend starting with 2 1/2 cups of broth since you can always add more later if needed.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil before covering it and reducing the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes—this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

After simmering, discard those bay leaves! Transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups worth of soup into a blender and blend until smooth. This adds creaminess while keeping some chunky goodness intact.

Step 7: Mix Back Together

Pour that smooth mixture back into your pot and stir well! If it seems too thick for your liking, just add more broth until it’s just right.

Step 8: Add Kale

Now stir in your chopped kale and let everything simmer for another few minutes until it’s wilted down nicely. This is where I like to taste test—don’t forget to adjust seasonings as needed!

Step 9: Serve Warm

Finally, serve your warm Tuscan White Bean Soup as is or alongside some hearty bread perfect for dipping. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup

Creating the perfect Tuscan white bean soup can be a delightful experience with just a few extra tips! Here are some handy suggestions to elevate your soup game:

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme and parsley can enhance the flavor profile of your soup. They add brightness and complexity that dried herbs might not fully replicate.

• Adjust the broth quantity: Start with less broth, as you can always add more to reach your desired consistency. This allows you to control the thickness of the soup based on personal preference.

• Blend for texture: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without adding dairy. It enhances the mouthfeel while still keeping some chunky beans for that hearty bite.

• Don’t rush the sautéing process: Taking your time while sautéing onions, garlic, and vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor. A little browning can make a big difference!

• Taste as you go: Adjusting seasonings throughout the cooking process ensures that your flavors are balanced. Don’t hesitate to add a pinch more salt or pepper until it’s just right!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serving your Tuscan white bean soup is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Freshly chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a sprinkle will give an extra kick.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A little high-quality olive oil on top adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Rustic gluten-free bread: A slice of hearty bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious soup goodness.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette will complement the richness of the soup beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional texture and nutrition to your meal.
• Quinoa or couscous: These grains make an excellent side dish, offering protein and fiber while providing a wholesome contrast to the soup.

Enjoy serving up this Tuscan white bean soup in style—you and your guests are in for a treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan white bean soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to manage your leftovers:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled soup in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• If you plan to eat it later, consider portioning it into smaller containers for easy access.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
• You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.

FAQs

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

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

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

How can I make this Tuscan White Bean Soup creamier?

To achieve a creamier texture, blend more of the soup after simmering. Alternatively, you can stir in some coconut cream or cashew cream for added richness.

What are some great toppings for Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Fresh herbs like parsley or basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or nutritional yeast can enhance flavor. Pairing with crusty gluten-free bread makes it even better!

Is Tuscan White Bean Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well and tastes even better after the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for preparing in advance.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious and comforting Tuscan white bean soup! It’s not just nutritious but also brimming with flavor that warms your heart. Whether you savor it alone or share it with friends and family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!