Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup Recipe – Hearty, Healthy, and Delicious

This Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is a nutritious and hearty dish that’s bursting with rich Italian flavors. Filled with creamy white beans, tender kale, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is comforting, filling, and easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a meal prep option, it’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection!

Ingredients for Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 large carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups fresh kale, chopped (stems removed)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Cook Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Carrots and Celery

Add Vegetables: Stir in the sliced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes to release their flavors.

Step 3: Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Beans

Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes to the pot.
Add Beans and Seasonings: Stir in the cannellini beans, dried thyme, rosemary, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cover and Cook: Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add Kale

Add Kale: Stir in the chopped kale and let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish: Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, and enjoy warm.

Tips for Making the Best Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup

Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme and rosemary, use them instead of dried herbs for an even brighter flavor.
Choose Tender Kale: Lacinato (dinosaur) kale works particularly well in this soup for its tender leaves and mild flavor.
Add Lemon for Brightness: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end enhances the flavor and balances the richness.

Variations on Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup

Add Sausage: For a heartier version, add cooked Italian sausage to the soup.
Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy texture.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Serving Suggestions

This Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
Side Salad: A simple green salad for added freshness.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a little more broth if the soup has thickened.

FAQs

Can I Use Other Types of Beans?

Yes! Great Northern or navy beans are good substitutes for cannellini beans.

Is This Soup Vegan?

Yes, if you use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan garnish, this soup is entirely vegan.

Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients (except the kale and lemon juice) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the kale for the last 30 minutes of cooking.

This Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is a delicious, nutrient-packed meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its rich broth, tender vegetables, and robust flavor, it’s a healthy and satisfying dish that will keep you warm and happy!