Tuscan White Bean Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up your day with a comforting bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup! This hearty and flavorful recipe combines tender white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein and nutrients, this soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and delightful experience!
A Heartwarming Meal
There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits and provide comfort on a chilly day. Tuscan White Bean Soup embodies this essence, offering a rich blend of flavors and textures that fill the bowl and warm the heart. This dish is not only comforting but is also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner. The combination of hearty beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs makes this soup a standout meal.
Moreover, the simplicity of this recipe highlights the beauty of wholesome, natural ingredients. Each component plays an important role in creating a flavor profile that is both delicate and robust. The earthiness from the herbs complements the subtle sweetness of the vegetables, while the creamy beans contribute to a satisfying texture. This is a soup that is sure to become a favorite among family and friends!
Healthy and Nutritious
Not only is Tuscan White Bean Soup delicious, but it is also notably healthy. Packed with protein from the white beans and a variety of vitamins from the fresh vegetables, this soup serves as a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Whole foods like beans and greens are known for their health benefits, including improved digestion and heart health, making this dish a wise choice for any meal plan.
Additionally, the low-calorie nature of this soup allows for generous servings without the guilt. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily accommodate your nutritional preferences or dietary restrictions. For a vegan-friendly version, simply ensure that your vegetable broth is plant-based, and you’ll have a delightful meal that everyone can enjoy.
Perfect Pairings
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Tuscan White Bean Soup with freshly baked crusty bread. A slice of sourdough or a warm baguette can be the ideal companion, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup. The crunchy texture of the bread complements the creamy beans and soft vegetables, creating a delightful contrast that enhances each bite.
For those looking to add more variety to their meal, a simple side salad featuring a mix of greens and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance. This adds not only color to your plate but also additional nutrients, making your meal even more wholesome. Don’t forget to serve it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor that truly captures the essence of Tuscan cuisine.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Beans and Broth
Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Finish with Spinach
Add the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
Cooking Tips
When making Tuscan White Bean Soup, choosing high-quality beans can significantly enhance the final dish. Canned beans are convenient, but if you have the time, consider using dried beans that have been soaked overnight. This allows for better texture and flavor absorption during the cooking process. Remember, if using dried beans, adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach the perfect level of tenderness.
Additionally, feel free to modify the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale can make great additions to this soup. The key is to maintain the balance of flavors while incorporating seasonal vegetables to make the dish even more vibrant.
Storage and Reheating
Tuscan White Bean Soup is an excellent dish to prepare in advance since its flavors deepen over time. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days, making it an ideal meal prep option. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the soup in individual-serving containers for up to 3 months.
When reheating, simply thaw if frozen and warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water as needed to achieve your desired consistency. This soup is quick to reheat, ensuring that a delicious meal is just minutes away!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned beans?
Yes, canned beans work great for this recipe and save you time.
→ Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well, just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
Tuscan White Bean Soup
Warm up your day with a comforting bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup! This hearty and flavorful recipe combines tender white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs for a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Packed with protein and nutrients, this soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and delightful experience!
Created by: Mia Jefferson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Add the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g