Save Warm up with a bowl of this Tuscan White Bean Soup, a rustic Italian classic that brings comfort to any table. Featuring creamy cannellini beans and nutrient-dense kale, this soup is elevated by a bright finishing touch of fresh lemon zest and juice. It is a simple yet hearty dish that is both vegetarian and gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for a healthy, satisfying meal.
Save This soup relies on the traditional soffritto base of onions, carrots, and celery to build a deep foundation of flavor. By simmering these vegetables with aromatic rosemary and thyme, you create a fragrant broth that perfectly complements the mild, buttery texture of cannellini beans. It is a timeless recipe that tastes even better as the flavors meld over time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bunch kale, tough stems removed, leaves chopped (about 4 cups packed)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh, minced)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (omit or use vegan cheese for vegan option)
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 6-8 minutes.
- Step 2
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Stir in the chopped kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly wilted.
- Step 4
- Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, water, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 5
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 6
- Remove about 1 cup of soup and beans, mash with a fork or blend, then return to the pot for a creamier texture.
- Step 7
- Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Step 8
- Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 9
- Ladle soup into bowls. Top with grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve a thicker, more luxurious consistency, do not skip the step of mashing a portion of the beans. Using a microplane for the lemon zest ensures you get the bright citrus oils without any bitter white pith. A heavy-bottomed soup pot will help distribute heat evenly and prevent the vegetables from scorching during the initial sauté.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan-friendly version, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or swap it for a nutritional yeast or a plant-based alternative. If you do not have kale on hand, baby spinach makes an excellent substitute; just add it at the very end as it wilts much faster. Non-vegetarians can also add cooked Italian sausage for a heartier, meat-based variation.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this rustic soup in wide bowls with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of the flavorful broth. A final drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a touch of elegance and richness to each serving.
Save Whether you are looking for a light lunch or a comforting dinner, this Tuscan white bean soup is a versatile staple for any kitchen. Its balance of textures and bright, herbaceous notes makes it a repeat favorite that feels both nourishing and sophisticated.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute kale with another green?
Yes, baby spinach is a great alternative that wilts quickly and offers a similar mild flavor and texture.
- → How do I achieve a creamy texture without cream?
Mash a portion of the beans and stir them back into the soup; this adds natural creaminess without dairy.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep the dish fully vegan.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor in this soup?
Thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf provide a fragrant and earthy backdrop to the fresh ingredients.
- → Can I add protein to make it heartier?
Cooked Italian sausage or other preferred proteins can be added for a meatier variation.
