Craving a soul-warming, nutritious soup that'll transport you straight to the rustic kitchens of Tuscany? Look no further! This Tuscan White Bean Kale Soup is about to become your new comfort food obsession. Packed with hearty white beans, nutrient-rich kale, and a symphony of aromatic herbs, this soup is not just a meal—it's a culinary hug that'll make your taste buds dance and your body thank you. Perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or when you're yearning for a taste of Italian countryside comfort, this recipe is about to revolutionize your soup game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Pour vegetable broth into the pot, then add drained and rinsed white beans. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Sprinkle dried thyme into the soup and season with salt and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for about 15-20 minutes to develop deep flavors and allow beans to soften further.
- Add chopped kale to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the kale is tender but still bright green and retains its nutritional value.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. If the soup seems too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh kale and high-quality vegetable broth for the most vibrant flavor.
- Don't Rush the Onions: Take time to properly sauté onions until they're translucent—this builds a rich flavor foundation.
- Garlic Matters: Mince garlic finely and be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
- Bean Preparation: Always drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and remove excess starch.
- Kale Cooking Tip: Add kale at the end to maintain its bright green color and nutritional value.
- Consistency is Key: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more broth. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
- Enhance Flavor: Consider adding a parmesan rind while simmering for extra depth, or top with a drizzle of good olive oil before serving.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
