Tuscan White Bean Soup

 Creamy  white beans, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs come together in this hearty, comforting soup. Perfect with a slice of crusty bread for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 2 tbsp  olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 (15 oz) cans white  beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed

• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional)

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

• Grated Parmesan, for serving (optional)

• Crusty bread, for serving
  

  Instructions

  1. Sauté the vegetables:

     • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

     • Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 7–8 minutes.

     • Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

  2. Simmer the soup:

     • Add beans, broth, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

     • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

  3. Creamy texture (optional):

     • For a thicker soup, lightly mash about ½ cup of beans with a spoon or potato masher.

  4. Add greens (if using):

     • Stir in kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes.

  5. Finish & serve:

     • Remove the bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice for a fresh touch (if using).

     • Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan, and serve with crusty bread.

  Tips & Variations

  • Dried beans: For deeper flavor, soak and cook dried beans instead of canned.

  • Protein boost: Add cooked Italian sausage, pancetta, or shredded chicken.

  • Creamier texture: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.

  • Meal prep friendly: Stores well in the fridge (up to 4 days) or freezer (up to 3 months).

  Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Calories: 280

  • Fat: 9g

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Protein: 12g

  • Fiber: 10g

  • Sodium: 600mg

  Enjoy this rustic, nourishing soup—warm, flavorful, and perfect for any season!