Tuscan White Bean Soup is a heartwarming, rustic Italian classic that brings together simple ingredients and deep, comforting flavors. This soup is inspired by the traditional countryside cooking of Tuscany, where cooks rely on fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and creamy cannellini beans to create meals that feel nourishing and timeless.What makes this soup particularly special is its balance of textures: silky broth, tender vegetables, and soft white beans that add richness without heavy cream. A touch of garlic, rosemary, and olive oil infuses each spoonful with warmth and Mediterranean soul.Whether you’re seeking a cozy weeknight dinner, a meal-prep–friendly dish, or a wholesome, healthy bowl that feels luxurious yet simple, this Tuscan White Bean Soup delivers beautifully. Serve it with crusty bread and a drizzle of good olive oil, and you’ll have a true Italian comfort meal on your table.
Ingredients
Soup Base
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional, adds extra creaminess)
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 additional can cannellini beans, blended for a creamy texture
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 cup chopped kale or spinach
1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 tbsp fresh, minced)
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
ÂĽ tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 bay leaf
For Serving
Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh parsley or basil
Grated Parmesan (optional)
Crusty bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes to develop flavor. The vegetables should slightly soften but not fully cook yet.
Step 3: Add Beans and Seasonings
Add one can of whole beans along with rosemary, thyme, black pepper, chili flakes, and bay leaf. Mix everything together to coat the vegetables and beans with the aromatic herbs.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
Blend the second can of cannellini beans with ½ cup broth until smooth. This step adds body and creaminess to the soup without using dairy. Pour the blended mixture into the pot.
Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the remaining broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and the soup thickens slightly.
Step 6: Add Greens
Stir in kale or spinach. Let simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes until the greens wilt and turn vibrant.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste and adjust with extra salt, pepper, or chili flakes depending on preference. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with high-quality olive oil, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and add grated Parmesan if desired. Serve with warm crusty bread.
Conclusion
Tuscan White Bean Soup is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish that embodies the heart of rustic Italian cooking. With its creamy broth, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it brings comfort with every spoonful. It’s nutritious, satisfying, budget-friendly, and ideal for both cozy nights or feeding a family. Once you try this homemade version, it will become a regular star in your kitchen—warming, nourishing, and packed with Mediterranean soul.
