Are you craving a heartwarming, nutritious meal that comes together in just 30 minutes? Look no further than this incredible Tomato and Vegetable White Bean Soup! Packed with vibrant vegetables, protein-rich white beans, and a symphony of Italian-inspired herbs, this soup is not just a meal – it's a culinary experience that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a health-conscious foodie, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that's both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and onions become translucent.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Add vegetable broth to the pot, then stir in dried basil and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add drained and rinsed white beans to the soup. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to develop fully.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir and let simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to incorporate the seasoning.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Optional: Serve with crusty bread or croutons for added texture.
Tips
- Sauté Secrets: Take your time when sautéing the vegetables. The key to deep flavor is allowing onions, carrots, and celery to soften and become slightly caramelized before adding other ingredients.
- Garlic Wisdom: Add minced garlic at the right moment to prevent burning. Those 30-45 seconds of cooking are crucial for releasing its aromatic flavors without turning bitter.
- Herb Enhancement: For an extra flavor boost, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried if available. Fresh basil and oregano can elevate the soup's taste profile.
- Bean Preparation: Always rinse canned white beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve digestibility.
- Texture Tricks: For a slightly creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend some of the beans and vegetables, creating a more luxurious consistency.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance. The flavors will continue to develop and deepen overnight.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a crusty sourdough bread or top with some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
