Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup
Description
This Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup is everything you want in a comforting meal — creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor from aromatic herbs, tender beans, and perfectly cooked vegetables.
It’s protein-packed, nourishing, and naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and filling.
Whether served with a slice of crusty bread or on its own, this soup will become your go-to comfort dish all season long!
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (or Great Northern beans)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cooked chicken (optional for added protein)
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup milk or cream (optional for creamier texture)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra depth)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
🍳 Instructions
- Sauté aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and celery; cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Add seasonings:
Add thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine. - Add beans and broth:
Pour in the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld. - Optional creamy blend:
For a thicker, creamier texture — use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup (about ⅓ of it), or mash some beans with a fork right in the pot. - Add chicken (if using):
Stir in cooked shredded chicken and simmer another 5 minutes until heated through. - Finish & serve:
Add milk or cream (if using) and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and Parmesan cheese.
🍽️ Servings
- Serves: 4–6
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: ~1½ cups
🔍 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~260 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Sodium | 520 mg |
| Calcium | 90 mg |
(Approximate; varies by ingredients used.)
🌿 Health Benefits
- 💪 High in plant-based protein: Cannellini beans provide satisfying, lean protein.
- ❤️ Supports heart health: Olive oil and beans are rich in healthy fats and fiber that promote cardiovascular health.
- 🧠 Rich in antioxidants: Garlic, oregano, and thyme contain powerful compounds that fight inflammation.
- 🌾 Excellent fiber source: Keeps digestion healthy and stabilizes blood sugar levels.
- 🍲 Balanced nutrition: Combines protein, fiber, and complex carbs for steady energy.
💡 Notes & Tips
- Texture tip: Blend half the soup for a creamy texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic style.
- Herb upgrade: Add a bay leaf during simmering for deeper flavor.
- Make it vegan: Skip the chicken and use vegetable broth + plant-based cream.
- Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freezer for 3 months.
- Reheat gently: On low heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth to loosen consistency.
- Serve with: Garlic bread, focaccia, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Yes! Soak 1½ cups dried beans overnight, drain, then simmer for 45–60 minutes until tender before using.
Q: Can I make this soup thicker?
A: Absolutely! Mash some of the beans or simmer uncovered for longer to reduce the broth.
Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes — skip the cream or substitute with coconut milk or oat milk for a luscious, dairy-free version.
Q: How do I add more greens?
A: Stir in 2 cups of spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Q: What protein alternatives work well?
A: Turkey, Italian sausage, or even tofu cubes for a vegetarian version work beautifully.
Q: How can I boost flavor even more?
A: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes just before serving.
Q: Can I meal-prep this?
A: Yes! Portion into containers and refrigerate or freeze. It reheats perfectly for quick lunches or dinners.