Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup

Name: Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 3 cups chopped kale, stems removed; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Isabella

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When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul. Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is not just any soup; it’s a hearty, nutritious blend packed with tender white beans, fresh kale, and aromatic vegetables, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. This recipe is perfect for cozy, healthy dinners, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried rosemary

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes

4 cups vegetable broth

2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed

3 cups chopped kale, stems removed

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)

Directions:

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add the Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a simmer.

Add Beans and Kale: Incorporate the white beans and chopped kale into the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the kale is tender.

Season and Serve: Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil.

Serving Tips:

Garnish: Enhance the presentation and flavor by garnishing each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or basil), or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil.

Accompaniments: Serve the soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal. A light, tangy salad can balance the richness of the soup.

Customization: Feel free to add protein, such as shredded chicken or sausage, for a heartier version. You can also adjust the seasonings and spices according to your taste.

Serving Temperature: Serve the soup hot for the best flavor. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave if needed.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days.

Freezing: If you want to make the soup ahead of time, it freezes well. Place the cooled soup in airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To thaw frozen soup, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Texture Considerations: Keep in mind that the texture of the kale may change after freezing and thawing. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider adding the kale fresh during reheating instead of before freezing.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Salmon

FAQs:

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can! Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Can I substitute other greens for kale?

Absolutely! While kale adds a wonderful flavor and texture to this soup, you can easily substitute other greens such as spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens. Just remember that some greens, like spinach, cook faster, so add them later in the cooking process.

Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, it is! Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Just ensure that you use vegetable broth and omit any optional garnishes that contain dairy, like Parmesan cheese, to keep it fully plant-based.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, you can easily adjust the spiciness of this soup. Add more red pepper flakes to the soup while cooking or include a diced jalapeño or another spicy pepper. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to spice up their individual bowls.