Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
This comforting Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is a perfect blend of hearty white beans, nutritious kale, and aromatic herbs, making it an ideal dish for any season.
This Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is inspired by the rustic flavors of Italy. Packed with protein-rich beans and vibrant greens, it's a wholesome meal that warms the soul.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious ingredients that promote health and wellness
- Hearty and filling, perfect for a cozy dinner
- Easy to make and ready in just 45 minutes
A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. This soup can be a stand-alone meal or served as a starter for a larger Italian feast. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it suitable for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or seeking a nutritious lunch option, this soup fits the bill perfectly.
In addition to being a cozy bowl of goodness, this soup is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. With a variety of colorful veggies like carrots, celery, and kale, you can feel good about nourishing your body with every spoonful. Plus, the white beans provide a healthy dose of protein and fiber, making this soup a balanced choice for any meal.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Kale, one of the star ingredients in this soup, is known for its numerous health benefits. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, this leafy green is a powerhouse of nutrients that support your immune system and promote healthy skin. Additionally, its high antioxidant content helps combat oxidative stress in the body, making it a fantastic choice for a wellness-focused meal.
White beans are another nutritional highlight of this recipe. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them ideal for vegetarians and those looking to reduce their meat intake. Furthermore, white beans are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. By enjoying this soup, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also giving your body the nourishment it craves.
Tips for Customization and Storage
One of the best things about Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand. You can add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even include a splash of coconut milk for a creamier texture. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the flavors.
For those who like to meal prep, this soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to leave out the lemon juice until you’re ready to serve. This way, you’ll have a quick and satisfying meal ready to go whenever you need it.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the Beans and Broth
Add the white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Incorporate the Kale and Herbs
Stir in the chopped kale, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Serve hot, garnished with additional olive oil if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. A slice of freshly baked sourdough or a warm baguette can help soak up the delicious broth, making each bite even more satisfying. You might also consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
For an added touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of pesto on top when serving. These garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add a depth of flavor that complements the soup wonderfully.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them is easy. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal whenever you need one. Just remember to leave out the lemon juice until you're ready to serve, as adding it during the reheating process can alter the taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook the fresh beans beforehand.
→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to include any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
→ How can I make it vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth.
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup
This comforting Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is a perfect blend of hearty white beans, nutritious kale, and aromatic herbs, making it an ideal dish for any season.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Stir in the chopped kale, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Serve hot, garnished with additional olive oil if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g