Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, nutritious dish to warm your soul, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is just the ticket! It’s not only hearty and full of flavor but also super easy to make. Picture this: a chilly evening, and you come home to the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

This soup is a favorite in my house because it checks all the boxes—vegan, gluten-free, and packed with protein. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort food!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Save time on cleanup with this easy one-pot meal.
• Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein from beans and loaded with veggies.
• Family-Friendly: A delicious way to get everyone to eat their greens!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make ahead and store for quick lunches or dinners.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices and ingredients creates a rich flavor profile.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe features pantry staples and fresh veggies that come together beautifully in this Tuscan White Bean Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 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

Variations

This Tuscan White Bean Soup is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:

• Add More Greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard along with the kale for extra nutrients.
• Boost the Protein: Add cooked lentils or quinoa for an even heartier soup.
• Change Up the Beans: Black beans or navy beans work well if you want a different flavor.
• Make It Creamy: Blend in some coconut milk at the end for a creamy twist!

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating 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 crucial because browning the onions enhances their sweetness and adds depth to your soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Garlic and Veggies

Once your onion is looking good, toss in the minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Sauté everything together for about 10 minutes until they soften up nicely. This combination creates a flavorful base that will make your soup irresistibly tasty!

Step 3: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Pour in the white grape juice next. This step helps lift those delicious browned bits off the bottom of the pot while adding a hint of sweetness. Allow it to cook until most of the liquid evaporates—about five minutes should do it.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all your remaining ingredients except for the kale. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Remember, you can start with less broth; you can always add more later if needed!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your soup mixture to a boil then cover and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

After simmering, remove those bay leaves from your pot! Transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups of soup into a blender and blend until smooth. This step gives your soup a wonderful creamy texture without adding dairy.

Step 7: Return to Pot & Adjust Consistency

Pour that blended goodness back into the pot and mix well. If you find it’s too thick for your liking, add more broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 8: Add Kale & Final Taste Test

Finally, stir in your chopped kale and let it simmer just a few more minutes until wilted. Give it a taste—this is where you can adjust salt, pepper, or even squeeze in some lemon juice for brightness!

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm as is or pair it with some hearty rustic bread on the side. Enjoy every spoonful of this lovely Tuscan White Bean Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup

Making Tuscan white bean soup is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to enhance your cooking experience!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Choosing fresh vegetables and herbs can dramatically elevate the flavor of your soup. Fresh produce tends to be more vibrant and aromatic, making every spoonful a delight.

• Adjust the Broth: Start with 2 1/2 cups of broth and adjust as needed. The amount of broth can depend on how thick you like your soup. Adding more broth will give you a lighter texture, while less will yield a heartier soup.

• Blend for Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blending part of the soup creates a luxurious base while leaving some beans whole for added texture. This technique makes the soup feel rich without any dairy!

• Season to Taste: After adding kale and letting it simmer, don’t forget to taste your soup! Adjusting the salt, pepper, and even squeezing in some lemon juice can brighten up the flavors beautifully.

• Make It Ahead: This soup stores wonderfully! Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors develop overnight in the fridge. Reheating makes it even more delicious!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

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

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor profile.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, topping your soup with crushed red pepper flakes can bring an exciting kick.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest over the top provides a fresh brightness that complements the earthy beans perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Rustic Gluten-Free Bread: A hearty slice of gluten-free bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup. It adds texture and makes for a satisfying meal.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup and adds freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make an excellent side that pairs beautifully with the flavors in your soup.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, red onion, and a light dressing complements Tuscan white bean soup nicely while adding another layer of nutrition.

Enjoy serving this delightful Tuscan white bean soup to friends or family—it’s sure to warm their hearts!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan white bean soup is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, you can make a big batch and store it for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, label with the name and date, so you know what’s inside.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a little broth if it’s too thick.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Tuscan White Bean Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

What can I serve with Tuscan White Bean Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic gluten-free bread or a fresh green salad. You could also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for extra flavor!

How long does Tuscan White Bean Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Tuscan white bean soup will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it cool before refrigerating!

Can I customize my Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. This recipe is very adaptable!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and comforting Tuscan white bean soup! It’s not just a simple recipe; it’s a nourishing dish that brings people together around the table. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists! Happy cooking!