Bean Soup

I’ve always had a soft spot for a good bowl of soup, and Bean Soup is one of the ultimate comfort foods for me. There’s something incredibly satisfying about a steaming bowl of soup that warms you from the inside out, especially on a chilly winter evening. A few years back, I discovered this scrumptious recipe that perfectly captures the essence of Tuscan flavors. The combination of creamy beans, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs makes it hard to resist. It became a staple in my kitchen, a dish I often serve when friends gather around the table. I love how versatile it is, too! Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, a light dinner, or a side dish, this Bean Soup fits the bill.

What to Buy for Bean Soup

When crafting the perfect Bean Soup, the ingredients are key. They work harmoniously to create a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing. The star components, like cannellini beans and fresh spinach, provide texture and depth, while herbs and spices elevate the flavors to new heights. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to create this delightful dish.

• 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil: This rich oil adds a delightful flavor and is perfect for sautéing.
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion: A staple in many soups, it provides a sweet and savory base.
• 3/4 cup chopped carrot: Adds a natural sweetness and beautiful color to the soup.
• 1/2 cup diced celery: This crunchy vegetable brings a refreshing element.
• 5 garlic cloves, minced: A must for flavor, garlic adds depth and aroma.
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth: Using low-sodium broth allows you to control the saltiness.
• 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Essential for that rustic Italian flavor.
• 1 small parmesan rind: This ingredient infuses the soup with a savory richness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans cannellini beans: These creamy beans are the star of the dish.
• 2 cups fresh spinach: This adds a vibrant color and nutritional boost.

Putting Together Bean Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s dive into making this delicious Bean Soup. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to put together! Follow these simple steps to create a bowl of warmth and comfort.

1. Start by heating 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a pot over medium heat. You’ll want the oil to shimmer before you add the vegetables. This step is crucial to build flavor.
2. Next, add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté them for about four minutes, stirring occasionally. Look for the onion to become translucent and fragrant.
3. After that, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Keep a close eye on it—garlic can burn quickly, which will make your soup bitter.
4. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning along with the parmesan rind. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always adjust seasoning later.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the soup to a light boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about twelve to fifteen minutes. You’re looking for the vegetables to become tender.
6. Add the cannellini beans and spinach into the pot. Stir gently and allow them to heat through until the spinach wilts, about thirty seconds.
7. Once everything is heated, remove the pot from the heat. Take a potato masher and mash about half of the beans right in the pot. This will help thicken the broth and create a creamier texture.
8. Don’t forget to remove the parmesan rind before serving—it’s done its job of infusing flavor!
9. Finally, drizzle individual servings with the remaining 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil for a finishing touch, and top each bowl with shredded parmesan cheese if desired.

Ways to Customize

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize this Bean Soup. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your dish:

• Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten up the flavors.
• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to toss in other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the veggies.
• Protein Boost: If you want to add more protein, consider stirring in some cooked chicken or turkey before serving.
• Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the cheese. It’ll still be delicious!
• Texture Twist: For a heartier soup, add some small pasta or rice during the simmering stage.
• Garnish Galore: Experiment with toppings like croutons, additional cheese, or even a dollop of pesto for a gourmet touch.

Perfect Pairings for Bean Soup

When it comes to serving Bean Soup, there are countless delightful options to enhance your meal. Here are some ideas that complement the soup beautifully:

• Crispy Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
• Salad Side: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup perfectly.
• Cheese Platter: Offer a small cheese platter with various cheeses for guests to enjoy before the soup.
• Seasonal Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables make a lovely side that adds color and nutrition to the table.
• Special Occasion: This soup is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday get-together.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to three months. Just reheat gently on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Bean Soup is a heartwarming dish that warms your soul and satisfies your cravings. With its wonderful combination of flavors and textures, it’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give it a try—you won’t regret it! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Bean Soup

The ultimate comfort food, this Bean Soup is creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. Packed with nutritious ingredients, it's perfect for a cozy dinner or an easy weeknight meal. Try it tonight for a deliciously warming experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Soups

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Saucepan
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 3/4 cup chopped carrot
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 5 cloves garlic
• 2 14.5 oz cans low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 small parmesan rind
• 2 14.5 oz cans cannellini beans
• 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

 

• Heat 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, celery and sauté 4 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute longer.
• Pour in chicken broth, Italian seasoning and add parmesan rind. Season with pepper and lightly with salt to taste. Cover soup with lid, bring soup to a light boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer until veggies are tender, about 12 to 15 minutes.
• Add beans and spinach, let heat just until spinach wilts, about 30 seconds.
• Remove from heat. Mash up about half the beans with a potato masher (this helps make the broth creamier and heartier). Remove parmesan rind.
• Drizzle individual servings of soup with remaining 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or more to taste) and top with parmesan.

Notes

• Garlic Reduction: If you don't love garlic you can reduce this to 2 - 3 cloves, but it really gives the soup a lot of flavor.
• Sodium Control: If you are wanting to reduce sodium in the recipe for a healthier option you can use unsalted chicken broth, unsalted canned beans and just lightly season the soup with salt.
• Herb Amp-Up: Wanting to amp up the flavor? You can finish the soup with some chopped fresh basil, parsley or oregano.
• Lemon Zest: Or try it with a spritz of fresh lemon for an added zing.

Keyword easy bean soup, healthy soup recipe, hearty vegetarian soup, Tuscan bean soup

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Meet Lydia James

I’m Lydia! I love the challenge of experimenting with new ingredients and finding creative, delicious ways to use up leftovers. My goal is to make your weeknight cooking feel stress-free, exciting, and full of flavor. I loved the creative process behind this dish, and I really hope it becomes a new favorite in your weekly rotation. I can't wait to hear what you think!