Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms your soul, let me introduce you to my Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup! This soup is like a big hug in a bowl—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. It’s packed with tender white beans and soft veggies, making it not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or serving it at a family gathering, this soup is sure to impress. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a slice of crusty bread for dipping!

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You can have this delightful soup ready in just 30 minutes! It’s also vegan-friendly, which means everyone at the table can enjoy it without worry. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot and simple steps, you can whip this up even on the busiest days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the hearty flavors and comforting texture.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers all week long.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with veggies and protein-rich beans, it’s a wholesome meal that keeps you satisfied.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh greens creates a delightful taste that warms every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple yet wholesome, making this soup as healthy as it is hearty. Here’s what you’ll need for my Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup:

For the Soup

• 1/4 Cup Olive Oil (extra virgin)
• 1 Small Onion (diced)
• 2 Medium Shallots (chopped)
• 4 Cloves Garlic (mashed)
• 2 Carrots (chopped into coins)
• 2 Celery Stalks (diced)
• 3 15 Ounce Cans Cannellini Beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
• 5-6 Cups Vegetable Broth
• 1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt
• 1/4 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper
• 3 Cups Fresh Spinach

Variations

One of the best parts about soup is how flexible it can be! Feel free to play around with these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand:

• Add More Greens: Throw in some kale or Swiss chard for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice it Up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños!
• Change the Beans: Swap out cannellini beans for chickpeas or navy beans for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in some coconut milk or cashew cream at the end for an even richer texture.

How to Make Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

To make this soup, start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-low heat. This step is crucial as it allows the oil to reach a temperature where it can properly sauté the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Next, dice the onion, garlic, and shallots and add them to the hot oil. Stir and sauté them for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.

Step 3: Add Veggies

Then wash and chop the carrots and celery. Add them to the pot next. Sauté for another 7-10 minutes—this helps develop deeper flavors as they soften and mingle with those aromatic ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Beans & Spices

Prepare your beans by rinsing and draining the cannellini beans before adding them to your pot along with bay leaves, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a hearty base that defines our Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Bring your soup mixture to a boil! Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for another 15 minutes. This not only melds all those lovely flavors together but also allows everything to cook down nicely.

Step 6: Remove Bay Leaves

Next, remove the cover to pull out and discard those bay leaves—no one wants to accidentally bite into one of those!

Step 7: Blend it Up

Then we’ll blend part of our soup. Transfer two cups of the mixture into a high-speed blender and blend until thick and creamy. This step gives our soup that luscious texture that makes each spoonful so satisfying.

Step 8: Return Blended Soup

Once blended well, return that creamy goodness back into your pot and stir generously—this ensures every bowl gets that rich texture.

Step 9: Add Spinach

Finally, stir in your fresh spinach until it’s wilted—a quick process that adds both color and nutrition!

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Once everything is done cooking, transfer your delicious Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired; then serve alongside crusty bread. Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few handy tips can elevate it even further!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can add an aromatic layer to your soup. They enhance the overall flavor and bring a delightful freshness that dried herbs might lack.

• Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicier, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. This personal touch allows you to customize the heat according to your taste preferences.

• Experiment with vegetables: Feel free to toss in any seasonal veggies you have on hand, such as zucchini or kale. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds variety and texture to your soup.

• Make it ahead of time: The flavors deepen beautifully when this soup sits for a day. Make a big batch on the weekend, and enjoy it throughout the week for quick meals.

• Blend partially for texture: Blending just part of the soup creates a delightful creaminess while keeping some beans whole for that satisfying bite. This adds both richness and heartiness to each bowl.

How to Serve Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup

Serving this hearty soup is all about creating a warm and inviting experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal memorable!

Garnishes

• Fresh chopped parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up your dish.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle on top not only looks beautiful but also enhances the rich flavors of the soup.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love a kick, offering extra red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their heat level.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of thick, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up all those wonderful flavors.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of the soup while adding crunch.
• Roasted Veggies: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables provide a delicious contrast to the warm soup and add extra nutrients to your meal.
• Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread with melted vegan butter is an indulgent choice that pairs perfectly with this comforting soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for a cozy meal that friends and family will love! Enjoy every spoonful of your Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, store it, and enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool fully before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For individual servings, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

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

Can I use other beans in my Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans give a great texture and flavor, you can substitute them with great northern beans or navy beans if that’s what you have on hand.

How can I make my Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup spicier?

If you like a bit more heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce when serving. Adjust according to your taste!

What should I serve with Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with thick, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it with some vegan cheese on top for extra richness!

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, your soup will last for up to 4 days in the fridge. Just make sure it’s cooled down before storing!

Is Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup good for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is fantastic for meal prep since it stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Perfect for quick lunches!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with loved ones, I’m sure you’ll love every spoonful. Don’t forget to try it with some crusty bread – it makes every bite even better. Happy cooking!

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