Name: Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup chopped kale or spinach; 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt & pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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There’s something truly heartwarming about a bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe that wraps you in rustic Italian coziness. This soup brings together creamy cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs all simmered in a perfectly savory broth. It’s simple, nourishing, and makes for the ultimate comforting meal, especially when you want to feel like you’re tucked away in a little Tuscan kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just diving into homemade soups, this recipe is an absolute must-try gem.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several small clear bowls arranged neatly. There are four deeper bowls with diced orange carrots, whole dry white beans, chopped white onions, and chopped red tomatoes, each placed separately. Smaller glass bowls hold yellow corn, crushed garlic cloves, and pale yellow liquid (likely oil), along with bowls containing various spices such as black pepper, dried herbs, and salt. A larger clear glass bowl filled with light yellow broth sits at the top right corner. The ingredients are laid out clearly and softly lit, showing their textures and colors vividly, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each component plays a special role in building the hearty flavors and inviting textures that make this dish so memorable.

Olive Oil (2 Tbsp): The golden base that gives the soup a silky richness and helps soften the veggies perfectly.
Onion, diced (1): Adds sweetness and depth, forming the flavorful foundation of the broth.
Carrots, chopped (2): Bring a subtle natural sweetness and a pop of vibrant color to the soup.
Celery stalks, diced (2): Provide an earthy crunch and aromatics that balance the flavors wonderfully.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Offers that classic punch of savory warmth essential in Italian cooking.
Cannellini Beans, drained (2 cans, 15 oz each): The star ingredient delivering creaminess and protein for a filling meal.
Vegetable or Chicken Broth (4 cups): The comforting liquid that infuses every spoonful with layered savory notes.
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): A fragrant blend that ties together all the herbal goodness in the soup.
Kale or Spinach, chopped (1 cup): Adds freshness, a lovely burst of green, and a nutritional boost.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors perfectly.
Grated Parmesan (optional): To sprinkle on top for a nutty finish that is utterly irresistible.

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Garlic

Start by warming the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery, sautéing them gently for about five minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen and build anticipation for what’s coming next.

Step 2: Add Beans, Broth, and Seasoning

Next, stir in the drained cannellini beans, followed by the broth and Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a gentle simmer. This simmering step is where the flavors begin to meld beautifully, so let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and deepen in taste.

Step 3: Mash Some Beans for Creaminess

To give your soup that perfect velvety texture, take about one cup of the beans and mash them with a fork or potato masher. Stir these mashed beans back into the pot, instantly thickening the broth without losing any of its rustic charm.

Step 4: Stir in the Greens and Simmer

Finally, add your chopped kale or spinach to the pot and let the soup simmer for another five minutes until the greens are just tender but still vibrant. Don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper as you like. This step brings a fresh brightness that balances the creamy beans perfectly.

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with a thick, orange-brown soup. On top, there are dark green leafy pieces and several large white beans scattered in the center. A spoon is dipped into the soup, held by a woman's hand with red nail polish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and around the bowl, there are small garlic cloves and some green leaves. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

One of the joys of this Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is how easily you can dress it up at the table. Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for a melty, salty contrast. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can also add a delightful kick if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty soup with crusty Italian bread or a warm baguette to soak up every last flavorful drop. A crisp side salad with a simple vinaigrette can add crunch and freshness, creating a perfectly balanced meal. For a heartier spread, consider roasted vegetables or a light antipasto platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl! Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a charming presentation that doubles as an edible container. Or ladle it into pretty soup crocks, topping each serving with a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for an elegant touch. It’s a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day soup even more delicious.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its comforting charm, making it a great meal prep option for busy days.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, reheat it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it feels too thick, add a splash of broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency. For a quick microwave option, heat in short intervals, stirring between each to warm evenly.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned for this Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Just remember to soak and cook the dried cannellini beans ahead of time until tender. Using dried beans will lend an even richer texture, though it does add prep time.

Is this soup vegetarian or vegan?

This Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is vegetarian as written, especially if you use vegetable broth. To keep it vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes! If you’d like a heartier version, adding diced pancetta or Italian sausage during the sauté step can infuse the soup with savory richness that’s hard to resist.

What’s the best green to use in this soup, kale or spinach?

Both work wonderfully. Kale holds up a bit better during cooking and adds a bit more texture, while spinach wilts faster and offers a milder flavor. Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How can I make this soup thicker or thinner?

To thicken the soup, mash more beans or add a small handful of cooked pasta or rice. For a thinner broth, simply stir in extra broth or water until you reach the consistency you love.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe enough—it’s that kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day and is so simple that you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or savoring a quiet night in, this soup truly captures the heart of Italian comfort food. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites!