Tuscan White Bean Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy and heartwarming meal, this Tuscan White Bean Soup is just the ticket! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something comforting. I love how simple it is to make, yet it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. This soup is not only vegan and gluten-free, but it’s also an excellent option for meal prep. You can whip up a big pot on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week!

Whether you’re hosting friends for dinner or need a quick dish for a busy weeknight, this Tuscan White Bean Soup has got you covered. It pairs beautifully with some rustic gluten-free bread for dipping, making every bite feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just one pot and simple steps, this recipe makes cooking stress-free!
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the hearty flavors and comforting texture of this soup.
• Meal prep favorite: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy delicious leftovers all week long!
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein from the beans and loaded with veggies, it’s both healthy and satisfying.
• Customizable options: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Tuscan White Bean Soup:

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
• 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 based on what you have at home or your flavor preferences.

• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard for added color and nutrients.
• Change up the beans: Use other varieties like navy beans or chickpeas if that’s what you have on hand.
• Make it creamy: Blend in some coconut milk or cashew cream for a richer texture.
• Spice it up: Add extra herbs or spices such as smoked paprika or cumin for an exciting twist.

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 begins to brown slightly. This step is essential because browning the onions brings out their natural sweetness, creating a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once your onions are golden, stir in minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Continue sautéing for about 10 minutes until everything softens and gets a bit of color. The browning creates depth in flavor that makes this soup truly delightful!

Step 3: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Now it’s time to add the white grape juice! Pour it in and let it sauté until most of the liquid evaporates—about 5 minutes. This step adds a hint of sweetness that balances beautifully with the savory ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Next, stir in all remaining ingredients except for the kale. Depending on your preference for thickness, start with 2 1/2 cups of broth. Mix well so all flavors meld together.

Step 5: Simmer Away!

Bring your soup to a boil, then cover it up and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. During this time, all those wonderful flavors will develop!

Step 6: Blend Some of the Soup

Once simmered, discard the bay leaves. Carefully transfer about 2 1/2 – 3 cups of soup into a blender and blend until smooth. This step adds creaminess while still keeping some texture from the whole beans.

Step 7: Return & Adjust Consistency

Pour the blended mixture back into your pot and stir well. If you feel it’s too thick for your liking, gradually add more broth until it’s just right!

Step 8: Finish with Kale

Finally, add in your chopped kale and let it simmer for another few minutes until wilted. Give it a taste—this is when I usually add extra salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness!

Step 9: Serve Warm & Enjoy!

Your delicious Tuscan White Bean Soup is ready! Serve it warm on its own or alongside some hearty gluten-free bread. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Tuscan White Bean Soup

Making Tuscan white bean soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and high-quality broth will enhance the overall flavor of your soup. Fresh ingredients bring out the vibrant tastes that canned or frozen may lack.

• Don’t Rush the Sautéing: Allow the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots to brown slightly during sautéing. This step adds depth and richness to your soup that makes it more comforting and flavorful.

• Adjust Broth Based on Preference: Start with less broth (2 1/2 cups) if you prefer a thicker soup. You can always add more later if you want a lighter consistency!

• Blend for Creaminess: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture without needing dairy. It’s a fantastic way to make the dish feel luxurious while keeping it plant-based.

• Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving! Adjusting seasoning with a little more salt, pepper, or even lemon juice can make all the difference in brightening the flavors.

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Presenting your Tuscan white bean soup in an inviting manner can truly enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make it visually appealing and delicious!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a fresh aroma and vibrant color.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil elevates the dish with richness and enhances its flavor profile.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens up the flavors in the soup, making it even more refreshing!

Side Dishes

• Rustic gluten-free bread: Perfect for dipping! A hearty slice pairs wonderfully with the soup’s creaminess.
• Simple green salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers complement the flavors in your soup beautifully.
• Quinoa salad: A cold quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs provides a nice textural balance alongside the warm soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Tuscan white bean soup will not only taste amazing but also impress everyone at the table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuscan white bean soup is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste better the next day, but it also makes for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Be sure to let it cool down before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if necessary.
• Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

Can I make Tuscan white bean soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is great for meal prep and tastes even better after sitting for a day. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

What can I serve with Tuscan white bean soup?

This flavorful soup pairs wonderfully with rustic gluten-free bread, a simple salad, or even some roasted vegetables. Feel free to get creative!

How do I adjust the thickness of my Tuscan white bean soup?

If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more vegetable or chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. Blend again if needed!

Is Tuscan white bean soup healthy?

Yes! Packed with protein from beans and nutrients from kale and veggies, this vegan dish is nutritious and satisfying without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Tuscan white bean soup as much as I do! It’s not just easy and nutritious; it’s also a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly days or anytime you’re craving comfort food. Don’t hesitate to tweak it to fit your tastes—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!