Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup
A comforting, rustic Italian-style soup made with creamy white beans, vegetables, herbs, and a rich tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners and meal prep!
🕒 Prep & Cook Time
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 35 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Servings: 4–6
🛒 Ingredients
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 medium carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes
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3 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
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4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
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1 cup water (adjust for desired thickness)
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1 cup chopped kale or spinach
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
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Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Add garlic, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2️⃣ Build the Flavor
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor.
Add diced tomatoes and cook another 2 minutes.
3️⃣ Add Beans & Broth
Add white beans, vegetable broth, and water. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
4️⃣ Blend for Creaminess (Optional but Recommended)
For a thicker texture, blend 1–2 cups of soup and return it to the pot (or use an immersion blender briefly).
5️⃣ Finish the Soup
Stir in kale or spinach and cook 3–5 minutes until wilted.
Add lemon juice (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
🧀 Serving Suggestions
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Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast
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Top with grated Parmesan
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Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil
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Pair with a simple side salad
💡 Tips & Variations
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Make it creamy: Add ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk.
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Add protein: Stir in cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken.
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Make it vegan: Use vegetable broth and skip Parmesan.
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Extra hearty: Add small pasta (like ditalini) or diced potatoes.
