Tuscan White Bean Soup

This Tuscan White Bean Soup is a warm, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s packed with nutritious ingredients. Made with creamy white beans, aromatic herbs, and tender vegetables, this soup is a comforting bowl of goodness perfect for any season. Whether served with crusty bread or as a standalone meal, this easy one-pot soup is sure to become a favorite!

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (about 100g)
• 2 carrots, diced (about 120g)
• 2 celery stalks, diced (about 100g)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 800g (2 cans) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1.2L (5 cups) vegetable broth
• 2 handfuls fresh spinach (about 100g)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
• Crusty bread, for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in garlic, thyme, oregano, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

1. Add the white beans and vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

1. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup. If using a regular blender, remove 1-2 cups of soup, blend until smooth, and stir it back in.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Finish

1. Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt for 2 minutes.
2. Add lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle into bowls, garnish with Parmesan cheese (if using), and serve with crusty bread.

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Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)

• Calories: 250
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 4g

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Tips for the Best Tuscan White Bean Soup

• Use Fresh Herbs: If available, use fresh thyme, oregano, and rosemary for even more flavor.
• Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or sausage for a heartier meal.
• Make It Vegan: Skip the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
• Store Leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.