Tuscan White Bean Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the essence of Italy to your kitchen. This delightful soup is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and rich flavors from fresh vegetables, beans, and seasonings, it offers a wholesome meal that warms the heart. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and even better as leftovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This soup comes together quickly in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich taste that satisfies your cravings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich beans, this soup is both nutritious and filling.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make Tuscan White Bean Soup efficiently, gather the right tools. Having the right equipment ensures that the cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking, it retains heat well and allows for proper simmering of the soup.
• Wooden spoon: Gentle on cookware and perfect for stirring without scratching your pots.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy when adding ingredients, which is key for achieving great flavor.

this recipe

Ingredients

For this delicious Tuscan White Bean Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound mild Italian sausage
• 1 large yellow onion (diced) (about 1 ½ cups)
• 3 ribs celery (diced)
• 2 large carrots (sliced into rounds)
• 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)

For Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Broth

• 4 cups (32 ounces) chicken broth
• 2 cans (15.5 ounces each) Great Northern beans (drained and rinsed)

For Creaminess

• 2 cups (60 g) fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream

For Garnish

• Parsley (chopped for garnish)

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the sausage. Cook until browned while breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Stir occasionally for about 10-15 minutes until fully cooked.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onions, celery, and sliced carrots. Cook until onions have softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Incorporate Seasonings

Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in the chicken broth along with drained Great Northern beans. Bring to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 6-7 minutes until celery and carrots are tender.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Add heavy whipping cream and fresh spinach to the pot. Continue cooking until spinach has wilted down, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Serve warm in bowls garnished with chopped parsley for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your homemade Tuscan White Bean Soup!

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan White Bean Soup is a comforting dish that warms the heart and soul. Serving it creatively can enhance the dining experience and bring out its rich flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread complements the soup’s creamy texture beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a burst of freshness and enhances the visual appeal.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar. This adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

As a Starter

• Serve in small bowls as an appetizer before the main course. This makes for an elegant start to any meal.

How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup

Perfecting your Tuscan White Bean Soup can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to help you achieve that delicious flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall taste and nutrition of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning according to your preference for a personalized flavor.
• Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes on low heat.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. This makes it richer without adding heavy cream.

Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup

Pairing side dishes with Tuscan White Bean Soup can round out your meal perfectly. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter complements the soup’s flavors wonderfully.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette adds protein and texture alongside the soup.
5. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a delightful side that pairs well with bean soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or quinoa make for a hearty addition to your dinner table.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that balances out the savory soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tuscan White Bean Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not cooking the vegetables properly can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Always sauté onions, celery, and carrots until softened before adding other ingredients.
• Using low-quality broth: The flavor of your soup relies heavily on the broth. Opt for a high-quality chicken or vegetable broth for the best results.
• Not seasoning adequately: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to a bland soup. Always sample and add more herbs or spices as needed during cooking.
• Overcooking spinach: Adding spinach too early can make it lose its vibrant color and texture. Add it towards the end of cooking for better results.
• Ignoring storage tips: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Ensure you cool the soup completely before refrigerating or freezing it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Tuscan White Bean Soup.

What are the main ingredients in Tuscan White Bean Soup?

The main ingredients include Italian sausage (or an alternative), white beans, vegetables like onions and carrots, chicken broth, spinach, and cream.

Can I make Tuscan White Bean Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I thicken my Tuscan White Bean Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can blend a portion of the beans with some broth and stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, simmering longer will reduce liquid content naturally.

How long does Tuscan White Bean Soup last?

When stored properly, it lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale, or use different herbs based on your preference for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Tuscan White Bean Soup is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients while enjoying its rich flavors. Whether served on a chilly day or at a family gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit!

Print

Tuscan White Bean Soup

---

• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Tuscan White Bean Soup is a warm, comforting dish that captures the heart of Italian cuisine. This creamy soup is brimming with flavorful vegetables, protein-rich beans, and aromatic herbs, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. Not only is it easy to prepare in one pot, but it’s also nutritious and perfect for meal prep—tasting even better the next day! Enjoy this hearty soup on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 3 ribs celery, diced
• 2 large carrots, sliced into rounds
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream
• Chopped parsley for garnish

---

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground turkey until fully cooked.
2. Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion, celery, and carrots; cook until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add tomato paste, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and black pepper; mix well.
5. Pour in chicken broth and Great Northern beans; bring to a simmer for about 7 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
7. Serve warm in bowls garnished with chopped parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian version, substitute the turkey with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adjust seasonings according to your taste preference for a personalized flavor experience.