© Original Recipe By Fresh & Fit Recipes ©
Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup: A Heartwarming & Creamy Delight 🥣🌿✨
1. Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Tuscan white bean soup. Known for its rich, creamy texture and rustic flavors, this soup is a perfect choice for chilly days or when you need something hearty and satisfying. Also called Tuscan bean soup or creamy white bean soup, this dish combines tender white beans with fragrant herbs, vegetables, and a luscious broth to create a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find this recipe simple, versatile, and incredibly delicious. For added convenience, explore tools like the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer from AmazonBasics to elevate your cooking experience.
2. Ingredients for the Tuscan White Bean Soup
- 2 cups dried white beans (or 4 cups cooked white beans)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy White Bean Soup
Preparing the Beans
If using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak in water overnight. Alternatively, use canned beans for quicker prep. Drain and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté over medium heat until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Adding Garlic & Herbs
Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cooking the Beans
Add the cooked or soaked beans, bay leaf, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 1 hour if using dried beans, or 15-20 minutes if using canned beans. Remove the bay leaf after cooking.
Blending the Soup
If you prefer a velvety, creamy texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to purée part of the soup. Alternatively, transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and stir back into the pot. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Serving the Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Tuscan White Bean Soup
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot.
5. Serving Suggestions for Creamy White Bean Soup
This Tuscan bean soup pairs beautifully with toasted crusty bread, such as a baguette or sourdough. Consider drizzling with a little extra virgin olive oil or sprinkling with freshly chopped herbs. For an added protein boost, serve with a side of grilled chicken or sausage slices. You can also transform this soup into a hearty meal by adding cooked pasta or quinoa, similar to the creamy parmesan spinach and mushroom pasta.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Tuscan White Bean Soup
Can I use canned white beans?
Absolutely! Rinse and drain canned beans and add them during the final 15-20 minutes of cooking to prevent over-softening.
What are some suitable substitutions for dried herbs?
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be substituted, but add them towards the end of cooking to retain their flavor.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, by using vegetable broth and ensuring no animal-derived ingredients are added, this soup can be vegan-friendly.
How long does it take to prepare?
The total cooking time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on whether you’re soaking dried beans beforehand or using canned beans.
7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: This durable cookware set will help you prepare the soup easily and evenly.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Great for toasting bread or making crispy toppings to serve with the soup.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Use it for quick grilled proteins or side dishes.
- Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker: Perfect for making a warm coffee to enjoy with your soup.
8. Additional Tips and Variations
For a creamier, richer soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving. Add chopped kale or spinach for extra greens. To make this dish more filling, include cooked sausage or scallops. Experimenting with spices like smoked paprika or cumin can create exciting new flavors.
9. Conclusion
This Tuscan white bean soup is a classic comfort food that combines wholesome ingredients with hearty flavors. Its creamy texture and rustic charm make it an ideal meal for cozy nights or when you crave something nourishing. With simple steps and adaptable ingredients, you can create this delightful dish in no time. Enjoy making this creamy white bean soup and savor its rich, satisfying taste—perfect for any season or occasion!
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Cozy Tuscan White Bean Soup
A hearty and creamy Tuscan White Bean Soup, loaded with tender beans, aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of olive oil, perfect for warming up any day
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave some beans whole for texture.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
- You can add chopped kale or spinach for extra greens.
- For a dairy-free option, skip any cheese toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg