Tuscan White Bean Soup

Introduction

Looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s both hearty and healthy? Tuscan White Bean Soup is a rustic Italian classic that proves you don’t need meat for rich, satisfying flavor. Packed with fiber-rich white beans, nutrient-dense vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

This plant-based soup delivers incredible taste in under an hour and is ideal for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. Whether you’re eating clean or simply want a wholesome comfort dish, this soup checks all the boxes.

Ingredients List

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Substitutions:

Swap cannellini beans with great northern or navy beans.
Use Swiss chard instead of kale or spinach.
Add 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Add garlic and herbs

Stir in garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add beans, tomatoes, and broth

Pour in beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth. Stir in salt and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Stir in greens and lemon

Add chopped kale or spinach and cook for 5 more minutes. Squeeze in lemon juice.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with crusty bread.

Nutritional Information (Per 1.5 cup serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	220
Protein	10g
Carbs	35g
Fiber	9g
Fat	6g
Sodium	480mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Use low-sodium beans and broth to reduce sodium.
Replace some beans with cauliflower for lower carbs.
Add quinoa for more protein and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty sourdough or garlic bread.
Top with grated Parmesan (if not vegan).
Pair with a light green salad for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Undercooked vegetables: Ensure veggies are softened before adding broth.
Overcooking greens: Stir in kale/spinach at the end to avoid mushiness.
Skipping the lemon juice: Adds brightness and balances flavors.

Storing Tips

Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

Tuscan White Bean Soup is a one-pot wonder that combines simplicity, nutrition, and satisfying flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again for comfort without compromise.

Try it out and let us know what you think in the comments—or subscribe for more cozy recipes like this one!