Easy Tuscan bean soup is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Packed with protein-rich beans, nutritious vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup is both hearty and healthy. It’s simple to make and offers a burst of flavors that will warm you from the inside out.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (960 ml) vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon (2.5 grams) dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon (2.5 grams) dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon (1.25 grams) dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (30 grams) fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for a creamier texture)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the Carrots and Celery:
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Add the cannellini beans, dried oregano, basil, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
5. Add the Greens:
- Stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
6. Optional Creamy Texture:
- For a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve and Garnish:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if using.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve the soup hot, with a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips:
- You can use other types of beans such as great northern beans or navy beans if you prefer.
- For added flavor, include a Parmesan rind during the simmering process and remove it before serving.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes for more variety and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This soup is ready in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup is both filling and healthy.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of aromatic herbs and savory broth makes this soup a comforting favorite.
Conclusion:
Easy Tuscan bean soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its quick preparation and rich, comforting flavors, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of a homemade meal with this simple and delicious recipe!