Description
A rustic and hearty Tuscan white bean soup featuring tender cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered in a savory broth. This simple Italian comfort food is perfect for a nourishing and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
Beans and Broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Seasonings and Others
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté vegetables and garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add beans, broth, and seasoning: Pour in the drained cannellini beans and 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Mash beans for thickness: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, mash about 1 cup of the beans against the side of the pot. This will naturally thicken the soup and add creaminess without cream.
- Stir in greens and simmer: Add the chopped kale or spinach to the pot and stir well. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Serve and garnish: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired, serving hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a heartier soup, add diced pancetta or sausage during the vegetable sauté step.
- Use vegetable broth to keep the recipe vegetarian; chicken broth adds a richer flavor.
- Leftover soup stores well refrigerated for up to 4 days and freezes nicely.
- For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding greens.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
