Tuscan Bean Soup

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Warm, hearty, and full of rich flavors, Tuscan Bean Soup is a comforting dish inspired by the rustic cuisine of Italy. This soup brings together creamy white beans, aromatic herbs, and fresh vegetables, creating a nourishing and satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or a wholesome lunch, it’s a timeless recipe that’s both simple and deeply flavorful.

A Rustic and Hearty Italian Soup

Tuscan Bean Soup is a staple of traditional Italian cooking, known for its depth of flavor and nourishing ingredients. Made with tender white beans, a medley of vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this soup is a delightful balance of creaminess and texture.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a wholesome dish that’s easy to prepare, this soup is an excellent choice. It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it both filling and nutritious. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Tuscan Bean Soup

To create a delicious and authentic Tuscan Bean Soup, you’ll need a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to make a rich, comforting bowl of goodness.

• White Beans – Cannellini beans or Great Northern beans are ideal for this soup, as they provide a creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor. You can use canned beans for convenience or dried beans for a more traditional approach.
• Olive Oil – A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the soup with a smooth and slightly peppery depth of flavor.
• Onion – Chopped onions add a natural sweetness and aromatic base for the soup.
• Carrots – These bring a touch of natural sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
• Celery – Adds a subtle crunch and a hint of earthy flavor that complements the other vegetables.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the soup with a rich, savory aroma.
• Vegetable Broth – A good-quality broth forms the base of the soup, providing depth and enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.
• Tomatoes (optional) – A few chopped tomatoes or tomato paste can add a slight tanginess and depth of flavor, though this ingredient is optional.
• Fresh Herbs – Rosemary, thyme, and parsley add an aromatic freshness that enhances the overall taste.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings that help balance and elevate the flavors.
• Kale or Spinach (optional) – Adding leafy greens provides extra nutrients and a vibrant touch of color.

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How to Make Tuscan Bean Soup

Making this classic Tuscan Bean Soup is a simple and rewarding process. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a warm, flavorful soup ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Herbs

Stir in the minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Beans

Add the drained white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. If you’re using tomatoes, add them at this stage as well.

Step 4: Simmer to Develop Flavor

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)

If you’re adding kale or spinach, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This ensures the greens stay vibrant and tender.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy warm with a side of crusty bread!

How Long to Cook Tuscan Bean Soup

The cooking time for Tuscan Bean Soup depends on whether you’re using canned or dried beans. Proper cooking ensures the flavors meld beautifully while keeping the beans tender yet intact.

• Using Canned Beans – Since canned beans are already cooked, the soup needs to simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
• Using Dried Beans – If using dried beans, they should be soaked overnight and cooked separately before adding them to the soup. This will add an additional 45-60 minutes of cooking time, depending on the type of beans used.

For best results, let the soup rest for a few minutes after cooking to enhance the flavors.

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How to Store Leftovers

Tuscan Bean Soup stores well, making it a great option for meal prep or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator – Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
• Freezer – Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Tips for Perfect Tuscan Bean Soup

Follow these simple tips to ensure your soup turns out rich, hearty, and flavorful every time:

• Sauté the Vegetables Well – Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery thoroughly at the beginning helps build a deep, flavorful base.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley add an authentic Tuscan touch. Dried herbs work too, but fresh ones elevate the dish.
• Add Greens for Extra Nutrition – Stirring in kale or spinach at the end boosts the nutritional value and adds color.
• Mash Some Beans for Creaminess – For a thicker texture, mash some of the beans before serving. This creates a velvety consistency without the need for cream.
• Serve with Crusty Bread – A slice of rustic Italian bread or garlic toast complements the soup and makes it even more satisfying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

2. Can I use different types of beans?
Absolutely! While cannellini beans are traditional, you can substitute Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even chickpeas.

3. How can I make this soup creamier?
Mash a portion of the beans with a spoon before serving, or blend a cup of soup and stir it back in for a thicker consistency.

4. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use a gluten-free vegetable broth and pair it with gluten-free bread if desired.

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