Name: Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tuscan
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (can substitute dairy-free or oil); 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 to 3 carrots); 1 cup diced celery (about 3 to 4 ribs); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 Tbsp tomato paste (25 g); 2 Tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped; 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp red pepper flakes; 4 cups vegetable broth (1 L); 3 cans cannellini beans (15 oz each, drained, about 425 g each); 2 cups kale, chopped; ½ cup heavy cream (120 mL); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (35 g)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 55 reviews

If you have been searching for a warm, nourishing, and absolutely comforting soup to add to your weekly rotation, look no further than this Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe. It perfectly balances hearty cannellini beans with vibrant kale and a rich, creamy finish that feels like a big, cozy hug from Italy itself. The blend of sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning delivers an authentic flavor punch, while the simplicity of the ingredients makes it a breeze to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this soup elevates your meal without any fuss or fancy techniques.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal cooking pot filled with chopped vegetables including orange carrots, white onions, and green celery. The vegetables are mixed evenly, showing different textures from the soft onions to the crisp carrots and celery. The pot has a shiny metal handle and is placed on a white marbled surface. The background shows a light yellow with a faint floral pattern. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe shines because of its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the butter creates a savory base, the veggies add color and texture, and the beans provide satisfying creaminess and protein.

2 Tbsp unsalted butter: Offers a smooth, rich base; feel free to substitute with oil or dairy-free spread if you prefer.
1 medium yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
1 cup diced carrots (2 to 3 carrots): Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color.
1 cup diced celery (3 to 4 ribs): Lends a subtle aromatic crunch to the broth.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with signature warmth and flavor.
2 Tbsp tomato paste (25 g): Intensifies the tomato flavor and provides a luscious texture.
2 Tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped: Adds tanginess and a touch of chew for complexity.
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that evokes Tuscan hillsides.
1 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor, balancing all the ingredients.
1 tsp red pepper flakes: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering.
4 cups vegetable broth (1 L): The savory liquid foundation for the soup.
3 15-oz cans cannellini beans, drained (425 g each): Creamy, tender beans that provide substance and protein.
2 cups kale, chopped: Brings earthiness and a bright green contrast.
½ cup heavy cream (120 mL): Enriches the soup with luscious creaminess.
½ cup grated parmesan (35 g): Offers a salty, nutty finish to round out flavors.

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Then, add the diced yellow onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook these until the onion turns soft and fragrant, about five minutes. This step is crucial because it forms the aromatic foundation that makes the soup feel deeply satisfying from the first spoonful.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Next, stir in the tomato paste, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for about three minutes until you can smell those wonderful herbs and rich tomato notes blooming. This step layers in essential flavor that elevates every bite.

Step 3: Add Broth, Beans, and Kale

Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the drained cannellini beans and chopped kale. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for at least 10 minutes, or until the kale softens and melds with the rest of the soup’s flavors. The beans absorb some broth, making them extra creamy and tender, while the kale adds a fresh, slightly chewy texture.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Remove the pot from heat and gently incorporate the heavy cream and grated parmesan. This final touch creates a silky, indulgent texture and enriches the flavor, making the soup feel both wholesome and a little luxurious. Serve immediately for the best experience.

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe

A close-up view of a ladle scooping creamy soup from a pan filled with a rich mix of ingredients. The soup has a smooth light yellow broth that looks thick and warm. Inside, there are bright green kale leaves, white beans, chunks of translucent onions, small pieces of sun-dried red tomatoes, and soft orange carrot slices. The kale adds texture with its leafy veins and curled edges, while the beans and vegetables float gently in the liquid. The background shows the soup’s surface inside the pan, resting on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make this soup really pop at the table, consider sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley or basil for a herbaceous lift. Crunchy croutons add delightful contrast in texture, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can bring a subtle fruity note that complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Side Dishes

A hearty soup like this pairs beautifully with rustic bread or a crisp green salad. For something different, serve alongside garlic bread or a cheese plate, allowing your guests to build their own comforting meal centered around this Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in charming ceramic bowls or bread bowls for a cozy look that invites everyone to dig in. You could also ladle it over polenta or cooked grains to create a more filling meal, or add a swirl of pesto for an herby twist that brightens the classic profile.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your soup cools to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen and improve with a day or two of resting, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

This Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe freezes wonderfully. Put it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. When it’s time to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. Adding a splash of water or broth can help if the soup has thickened too much. Avoid boiling after adding cream to maintain a silky texture.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter with a plant-based margarine, replace the heavy cream with canned coconut milk, and omit the parmesan or substitute it with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor.

Is it okay to use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but remember to soak and cook the dried beans fully before adding them to your soup. Using canned beans is quicker and just as tasty if you’re short on time.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to swap kale for spinach or add veggies like cauliflower, potatoes, or parsnips to give the soup your own twist.

How spicy is this soup because of the red pepper flakes?

The amount of red pepper flakes adds just a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. You can adjust the quantity up or down based on your preference.

Can this soup be made in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for both. In an Instant Pot, sauté the base ingredients first, then pressure cook with the liquids and beans. For a slow cooker, combine everything except cream and parmesan and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) Recipe is a modern classic you’ll want to make again and again. It’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. Give it a try, and soon it might be your go-to soup for every season.