Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan White Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting Italian soup combining creamy white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a rich and savory meal perfect for chilly days or year-round enjoyment. Easy to prepare with simple pantry staples and fresh produce, this soul-warming dish offers versatility, nutrition, and authentic Tuscan flavors in every bowl.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked white beans (Cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño (for a spicy kick)
  • Pancetta or Italian sausage (for a meaty boost)
  • Kale, spinach, or Swiss chard (for added greens)
  • Smoked paprika or chipotle powder (for smoky flavor)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Sauté the Base – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant to build the soup’s flavor foundation.
  2. Step 2: Add Aromatics – Stir in minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook briefly to release their aromas without browning the garlic to maintain its sweet and mellow flavor.
  3. Step 3: Incorporate the Beans and Broth – Add the drained and rinsed white beans to the pot, then pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. This allows the beans to absorb the broth’s flavor while simmering.
  4. Step 4: Simmer and Season – Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20-30 minutes so the flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste during cooking.
  5. Step 5: Final Touches – Remove rosemary sprigs, thyme, and bay leaves before serving. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an authentic Tuscan finish.

Notes

  • Use dried beans soaked and cooked yourself for fresher texture and better flavor compared to canned beans.
  • Do not skip the mirepoix (onions, carrots, celery) as it deepens the soup’s flavor.
  • Simmer gently on low heat to meld flavors without breaking down the beans excessively.
  • Fresh rosemary and thyme significantly enhance the soup’s aroma and authenticity.
  • To thicken the soup naturally, mash a few beans against the side of the pot rather than adding starch.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Tuscan white bean soup, Italian bean soup, cozy soup recipe, hearty bean soup, gluten-free soup