Tuscan White Bean Soup is a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors from Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy white beans. This soup is perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, offering a delightful taste of Italy in every spoonful. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed all year round. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
- Flavorful Depth: The combination of Italian sausage and herbs creates a rich, robust flavor profile.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Versatile Meal: Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it suits any table setting.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Tuscan White Bean Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well, allowing for even cooking and simmering of the soup.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up the sausage.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of vegetables for quick prep time.
Ingredients
Tuscan White Bean Soup is a delicious one-pot dish with layers of flavors from Italian sausage, vegetables, herbs, and spices with creamy white beans and spinach. It’s a wholesome meal that you will love! And, it’s so good when reheated as the flavors all come together even more!
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
How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by adding the sausage to a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon. Stir occasionally for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onions, celery, and carrots to the pot. Cook until onions soften, about 3-5 minutes. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 3: Add Flavorings
Stir in tomato paste along with Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Beans
Pour in chicken broth along with drained Great Northern beans. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 6-7 minutes or until celery and carrots are tender.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Spinach
Add heavy cream and fresh spinach into the pot. Continue cooking until spinach wilts down—this should take about 5 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Serve warm in bowls garnished with chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Enjoy your delightful Tuscan White Bean Soup!
How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup
Tuscan White Bean Soup is a warm, comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, the presentation and accompaniments can enhance the experience.
With Crusty Bread
- A fresh loaf of crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup. Use it to soak up the flavorful broth.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness to each bowl.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the flavors and adds richness to the soup.
Served with a Side Salad
- A simple green salad made with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the hearty soup well.
In Individual Bowls
- Consider serving the soup in individual bowls for a more elegant presentation at dinner parties.
Topped with Grated Parmesan
- A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top provides a salty kick and enhances the creaminess of the soup.
How to Perfect Tuscan White Bean Soup
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Tuscan White Bean Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and good-quality sausage will make a significant difference in taste.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! You may want to add more herbs or spices depending on your preferences.
- Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors. Just ensure you don’t let it boil too vigorously.
- Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend part of the soup before adding spinach and cream.
- Experiment with greens: If you don’t have spinach, try kale or Swiss chard for variation.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day when all the flavors meld together!
Best Side Dishes for Tuscan White Bean Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Tuscan White Bean Soup can create a satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup, garlic bread adds flavor and crunch.
- Caprese Salad: A fresh mix of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil brings brightness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers complement the soup’s rich flavors.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a nice contrast to the warm soup.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses pairs wonderfully and allows guests to snack while enjoying their soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains and cheese for a hearty side that balances out the meal.
- Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta makes an excellent appetizer leading into your main course.
- Antipasto Platter: Featuring cured meats, olives, and pickled vegetables, this platter adds Italian flair to your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Tuscan White Bean Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish!
- Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the sausage properly can lead to a less flavorful soup. Take the time to brown it well for a richer taste.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking the onions, celery, and carrots too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture for better bite and flavor.
- Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting your soup before serving may result in a bland dish. Always sample and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality broth or beans can negatively affect the overall flavor. Choose high-quality chicken broth and fresh beans for the best results.
- Rushing the Simmering Process: Skipping the simmering time can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow your soup to simmer adequately for a more robust taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Tuscan White Bean Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tuscan White Bean Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each session until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tuscan White Bean Soup?
Tuscan White Bean Soup is a hearty Italian-inspired dish made with white beans, vegetables, and spices that create a rich flavor profile.
How do I make Tuscan White Bean Soup vegetarian?
You can substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or simply omit it. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Can I use other beans in Tuscan White Bean Soup?
Yes! While Great Northern beans are traditional, you can use cannellini or navy beans as alternatives for similar textures and flavors.
How long does Tuscan White Bean Soup last in the fridge?
Tuscan White Bean Soup stays fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
Tuscan White Bean Soup is not only a comforting meal but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your preference. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Tuscan White Bean Soup
Tuscan White Bean Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings the rich flavors of Italy to your table. With its creamy texture and nourishing ingredients like Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and hearty white beans, this soup is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. Each spoonful is filled with robust flavors that deepen as it simmers, making it an even more satisfying meal when reheated. Plus, it’s simple to make in just one pot, ensuring an easy cleanup. Enjoy a taste of Italy any day of the week with this delightful recipe!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 ribs celery, diced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans Great Northern beans
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage for about 10-15 minutes.
- Reduce the heat and add diced onions, celery, and carrots; sauté until softened (3-5 minutes). Then stir in minced garlic for another minute.
- Mix in tomato paste and seasonings: Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper, and black pepper.
- Pour in chicken broth and Great Northern beans; bring to a simmer for 6-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and spinach; cook until spinach wilts (about 5 minutes).
- Serve warm in bowls garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
