Cozy Tuscan white bean soup has been my go-to for years when I crave a hug in a bowl. I still remember my Nonna making this on rainy Sundays; the smell of garlic and herbs filling her tiny kitchen was pure magic. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a true comfort food white bean soup, packed with tender beans, savory vegetables, and a rustic Italian charm that makes it feel like an authentic Tuscan white bean soup. It’s deceptively simple yet incredibly satisfying, perfect for any night of the week. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
This soup is a winner for so many reasons, and I know you’ll adore it too! It’s packed with incredible flavor and so satisfying.
- Amazing Taste: It’s rich, savory, and incredibly comforting with tender beans and aromatic herbs.
- Quick Prep: You can have this on the table in under an hour, making it an easy Tuscan white bean soup for busy weeknights.
- Healthy & Hearty: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, it’s a wonderfully nutritious choice.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love this wholesome and delicious meal.
- Versatile: It’s a fantastic base for a truly hearty Tuscan white bean stew, easily customizable with your favorite add-ins.
- Pure Comfort: It truly embodies the spirit of comfort food, warming you from the inside out.
Ingredients for Your Tuscan White Bean Soup
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making this amazing Tuscan bean soup recipe. I always keep most of these on hand for a quick and satisfying meal.
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – This is key for sautéing our aromatics and adds a wonderful fruity base.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – A foundational flavor builder for any good soup.
- 1 cup carrots, diced – Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
- 1 cup celery, diced – Provides that classic aromatic base and a subtle savory note.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Because no Italian dish is complete without plenty of garlic!
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices – These bring a lovely acidity and depth.
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth – The liquid gold that brings everything together.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed – The star of our soup, these beans are wonderfully creamy and mild.
- 1 tsp dried basil – For that classic Italian herb flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Another essential herb that complements the beans beautifully.
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves – Adds a boost of greens and wilts in beautifully at the end.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
Making this soup is a joy, and the aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is simply divine. You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time!
- Step 1: Begin by heating 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the 1 medium onion, chopped, 1 cup carrots, diced, and 1 cup celery, diced. Sauté these aromatics for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become fragrant.
- Step 2: Add the 4 cloves garlic, minced, to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Step 3: Pour in the 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices and 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Step 4: Stir in the 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed. These beans are the heart of our soup, making it wonderfully creamy. This is where the magic starts to happen, transforming into a truly creamy Tuscan white bean soup.
- Step 5: Season the soup with 1 tsp dried basil and 1 tsp dried oregano. Stir well to distribute the herbs. Let the soup simmer gently for at least 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This simmering time is crucial for developing that deep, savory taste that makes this a simple Tuscan white bean soup.
- Step 6: Just before serving, stir in the 2 cups fresh spinach leaves. Cook for just a minute or two until the spinach is wilted. This adds a lovely freshness and extra nutrients.
- Step 7: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, perhaps with an extra drizzle of olive oil for richness. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Tuscan goodness!
Pro Tips for the Best Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
I’ve made this soup countless times, and a few tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely spectacular. Follow these tips for a truly memorable bowl!
- For an even creamier texture, I like to mash about a cup of the beans against the side of the pot before adding the spinach. It thickens the soup naturally.
- Don’t skimp on the quality of olive oil; a good extra virgin olive oil adds a fantastic fruity note that complements the beans and herbs.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the very end. Broth and canned beans can vary in saltiness, so fine-tuning right before serving makes all the difference.
- If you have fresh rosemary or thyme, a sprig or two simmered in the soup adds an incredible aroma and depth of flavor. Remove before serving.
What’s the secret to perfect Tuscan white bean soup?
The secret lies in building layers of flavor: properly sautéing the aromatics, using good quality beans, and letting it simmer to meld the flavors. This technique ensures a rich, authentic white bean soup Italian style.
Can I make Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup is even better the next day as the flavors have more time to deepen. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For more recipe ideas, check out our latest recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Tuscan white bean soup?
Avoid overcooking the vegetables, which can make them mushy. Also, be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end, as canned beans can be salty. If you have questions about our practices, please review our privacy policy.
Best Ways to Serve Your Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
This delightful soup is wonderful on its own, but I love serving it with a few things to make it a complete meal. It’s so versatile!
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or ciabatta is perfect for dipping into the savory broth. I love using it to soak up every last drop.
- Simple Green Salad: Pair it with a light, lemony arugula salad for a balanced and healthy meal. This complements the heartiness of the soup beautifully.
- Garnish: A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes really make it pop. Think of it as a more robust version of an Italian white bean and kale soup, but with cannellini beans! For more information on food safety, consult the terms of use.
Health Benefits and Nutrition Facts for Healthy Tuscan White Bean Soup
This soup is a fantastic choice for a nutritious meal, offering a good balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins. It’s a truly satisfying and wholesome dish.
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For questions about data handling, please see our GDPR information.
How to Store and Reheat Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
One of the best things about this soup is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep. You can easily prepare a big batch and have delicious leftovers ready to go. This is a fantastic aspect of an easy vegetarian bean soup that fits perfectly into a busy lifestyle. If you need to get in touch, please use our contact page.
- Cooling: Always let the soup cool down to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation inside your containers, which can affect texture and shelf life.
- Containers: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best for both refrigerator and freezer storage.
- Refrigerator: Stored properly in the fridge, your soup will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. It’s perfect for reheating throughout the week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions. If the soup seems a bit thick after storage, a splash of broth or water can help restore its perfect consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
What is Tuscan white bean soup?
Tuscan white bean soup is a rustic, hearty Italian soup originating from the Tuscany region of Italy. It’s characterized by its creamy cannellini beans, simple vegetables like carrots and celery, and aromatic herbs. It’s a classic example of a peasant dish elevated to deliciousness through simple, quality ingredients.
How do I make Tuscan white bean soup taste authentic?
To achieve an authentic flavor, focus on quality ingredients. Use good extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, and don’t be afraid to season generously with basil and oregano. Letting the soup simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating that signature Tuscan taste.
Can I make this Tuscan white bean soup recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian! To make it a vegan Tuscan white bean soup, simply ensure you use vegetable broth and no dairy products. This version is naturally vegan and incredibly satisfying, proving that you don’t need meat for amazing flavor.
What are the best beans to use for Tuscan white bean soup?
Cannellini beans are the traditional choice for their creamy texture and mild flavor, which absorb the soup’s aromatics wonderfully. However, Great Northern beans or even alubia blanca beans can also be used if cannellini beans aren’t available. Using dried beans soaked overnight often yields the best texture.
Delicious Variations of Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
Once you master the basic recipe, you’ll find this soup is a fantastic canvas for all sorts of delicious variations. I love experimenting with it!
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the dried herbs. It adds a wonderful warmth that complements the creamy beans beautifully.
- Heartier Stew: Turn this soup into a thick, hearty stew by reducing the amount of broth slightly and adding some chopped kale or Swiss chard in the last 10 minutes of cooking. It’s like an Italian white bean and kale soup but even heartier!
- Creamier Texture: If you’re aiming for an ultra-rich and creamy experience, consider blending about half a can of the beans with a little broth before adding them to the pot. This creates a luxurious base.
- Vegan Delight: This recipe is already a wonderful vegetarian Tuscan white bean soup. To ensure it’s a fully vegan Tuscan white bean soup, just double-check that your vegetable broth is certified vegan and enjoy!
Cozy Tuscan White Bean: Simple, Amazing Comfort
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly days. It features creamy cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, capturing the essence of Italian cuisine. Easy to prepare, this soup delivers rich flavors and is ideal for weeknight meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the drained cannellini beans and stir well.
- Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Gently stir in fresh spinach until wilted.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
- Soak dried beans overnight for better texture and flavor if not using canned.
- Do not skip fresh herbs; they significantly enhance the soup’s flavor.
- Adjust seasoning at the end of cooking for a perfect balance.
- This soup freezes well for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cozy Tuscan White Bean, Tuscan white bean soup recipe, Creamy Tuscan white bean soup, Hearty Tuscan white bean stew, Easy Tuscan white bean soup, Vegetarian Tuscan white bean soup, Vegan Tuscan white bean soup, How to make Tuscan white bean soup, What is Tuscan white bean soup, Why is Tuscan white bean soup so good, Best Tuscan white bean soup, Authentic Tuscan white bean soup, Simple Tuscan white bean soup, Healthy Tuscan white bean soup, Tuscan bean soup recipe, White bean soup Italian style, Hearty bean soup Tuscan, Comfort food white bean soup, Easy vegetarian bean soup, Italian white bean and kale soup, Savory Tuscan white bean dish