Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup
Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup
Introduction
Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup is a warm and comforting dish that captures the essence of Italian rustic cooking. This soup is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for cozy dinners or a hearty lunch. With its simple ingredients like cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and a blend of herbs, it’s a delightful way to experience the tastes of Tuscany right in your own home.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it’s a healthy dish filled with protein from the beans and vitamins from the vegetables. Second, it is easy to prepare, even for beginners. Lastly, this soup is versatile; you can serve it on its own or pair it with crusty bread. Plus, making soup is a great way to warm up on cold days!
How to Make Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup
Making this delicious soup is simple. Follow these easy steps to create a bowl of comfort.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried cannellini beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Rinse the cannellini beans and soak them in water overnight.
- Drain and rinse the beans, then set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add carrots and celery; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in the soaked beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
- Add the chopped kale or spinach and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup
Serve this soup hot in bowls. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice visual touch and enhances the flavor.
How to Store Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will last for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup
- Make sure to soak the beans overnight for better texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes.
Variation
This soup can be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth, which is already included in the recipe. You can also try adding cooked pasta or grains for a heartier meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
A: Yes, you can use canned cannellini beans. Just drain and rinse them, and add them to the pot after sautéing the vegetables. Reduce the cooking time to about 20-30 minutes.
Q: Can I add meat to this soup?
A: Absolutely! You can add cooked sausage or chicken for extra protein. Just sauté the meat with the onions and garlic.
Q: Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, this soup is great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in portions for easy meals throughout the week.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup with family and friends!
Print
Country-Style Tuscan Bean & Herb Soup
- Total Time: 130 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting Italian bean soup packed with flavor and nutrition, featuring cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and a blend of herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried cannellini beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the cannellini beans and soak them in water overnight.
- Drain and rinse the beans, then set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add carrots and celery; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in the soaked beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender.
- Add the chopped kale or spinach and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
This soup can be made vegetarian or vegan. You can also add cooked pasta or grains for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
