Warm up with a bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup, a delightful and hearty dish that embodies the spirit of Italian cuisine. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, featuring creamy white beans, aromatic herbs, and a hint of smokiness. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Whether you’re looking for a nourishing dinner or a comforting lunch, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.
Ingredients
– 2 cans of white beans (cannellini or navy beans)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 stalks of celery, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people, with a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 40g
– Dietary Fiber: 10g
– Fat: 6g
This nutritional value is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add canned tomatoes, stirring to combine.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Add white beans, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
8. Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for creaminess.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute white beans with other beans like chickpeas for a different flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes.
Serving and Pairings
Tuscan White Bean Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches or bruschetta.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t rush the sautéing; it builds flavor.
– Avoid adding too much salt at the beginning; adjust later.
– Don’t skip the immersion blending; it adds creaminess.
– Use fresh herbs when possible for better flavor.
– Ensure beans are well-drained to avoid excess liquid.
– If using dried beans, soak them overnight for better texture.
– Taste frequently to achieve the perfect seasoning.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality olive oil for a richer taste.
– Experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles.
– Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
– For a smoky flavor, consider adding pancetta or bacon.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but you’ll need to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, Tuscan White Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any added ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How can I make it spicier?
For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, adding diced chicken, sausage, or pancetta can enhance the flavor and make it more filling.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Tuscan White Bean Soup will last in the fridge for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Tuscan White Bean Soup is a versatile and hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy this soup with family and friends, and experience the cozy taste of Tuscany in your own home.
Tuscan White Bean Soup
Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans cannellini or navy beans
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 stalks of celery diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes canned or fresh
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add canned tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add white beans, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup for creaminess.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.