Tuscan Bean Soup

This easy Tuscan Bean Soup recipe, blends a symphony of vibrant veggies, juicy tomatoes, aromatic Italian-inspired spices, and hearty beans. Wholesome, cozy and the perfect comforting meal on a chilly day.

Updated September 2023

Tuscan Bean Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight

Are you in the mood for a warm and comforting bowl of soup that’s bursting with flavors? This Tuscan Bean Soup recipe is packed with wholesome ingredients and rich, aromatic spices making it the perfect choice for a cozy Italian-inspired family dinner or a nourishing meal all year round.

Not only is this wholesome and heartwarming soup a culinary journey inspired by the heart of Italy, it’s easy to make in just one pot right in your own kitchen. With a symphony of flavors and a heartwarming aroma, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you savor it on a chilly evening or as a comforting lunch, this cozy soup will leave you craving for more. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free and can easily be vegan-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a moment to appreciate the star-studded cast of ingredients that make this Tuscan Bean Soup so irresistible:

• Avocado Oil or Olive Oil: These heart-healthy oils provide the base for sautéing our aromatic vegetables.
• Vegan Butter (or Substitutes): Adds a creamy richness to the soup while keeping it dairy-free. You can also use coconut oil, ghee, or unsalted butter if dairy isn’t a concern.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples bring depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile.
• Carrots and Celery: Not only do they add vibrant color, but they also provide essential nutrients and a pleasant crunch.
• Zucchini and Red Bell Pepper: These vegetables contribute a delightful freshness and a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Almond Flour (or Substitutes): Our secret for thickening the soup to perfection. You can also use gluten-free oat flour, gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour or even all-purpose flour if needed.
• Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth: The flavorful base of the soup that infuses it with depth and richness. Opt for chicken broth or vegetable broth if you’re going the plant-based.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of aromatic herbs that delivers that classic Tuscan flavor.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): If you like a bit of heat, these flakes will provide a subtle kick.
• Cannellini Beans: Creamy and protein-packed, these white beans are a staple in Tuscan cuisine.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds a burst of freshness and acidity to the soup.
• Fresh Spinach Leaves: Packed with vitamins, these greens wilt beautifully into the soup.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A dash of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for the perfect balance.

Optional

• Diced Cooked Chicken Breast: For those who crave that extra protein, you can add some chopped rotisserie chicken or diced cooked chicken, but feel free to substitute with browned Italian-sausage, diced cooked turkey or your favorite plant-based protein.

Instructions: How to make Tuscan Chicken Soup

Now, let’s break down the steps to create this delectable Tuscan Vegetable Soup:

• Sauté Aromatics: Heat avocado oil and vegan butter in a large pot. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until tender and fragrant.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in zucchini and red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
• Create Roux: Sprinkle in almond flour to create a roux. Cook for another minute.
• Add Broth: Slowly pour in 1 cup of broth while continuously stirring until it thickens. Then, add the remaining broth.
• Season and Simmer: Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, beans, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Add optional chicken, if using, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
• Finish with Greens: Stir in spinach and apple cider vinegar. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
• Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Tuscan Bean Sup turns out perfectly every time, here are some valuable tips:

• Sauté Slowly: Taking your time to sauté the vegetables allows their flavors to develop fully.
• Gradual Broth Addition: Pour in the chicken broth slowly while stirring to create a velvety, lump-free texture.
• Simmer and Savor: Let the soup simmer on low to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Tuscan Vegetable Soup is a complete meal in itself, but if you’re looking to enhance your dining experience or create a well-rounded menu, here are some delightful accompaniments to consider:

1. Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of rustic Italian bread is the perfect sidekick for dunking into your soup. It’s ideal for mopping up every last drop of the savory goodness.

2. Salad: A Vegan Caesar Salad or a simple green salad with a zesty Italian dresisng can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. Consider using fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a crisp and light side dish.

3. Cheese Platter: If you’re in the mood for something more elaborate, create a cheese platter with an assortment of cheeses, crackers, and some fresh fruit. The variety of textures and flavors will complement the soup beautifully.

4. Bruschetta: Toasted slices of baguette topped with fresh tomato, basil, garlic, and olive oil make for a mouthwatering appetizer or side dish that pairs wonderfully with Tuscan Chicken Soup.

6. Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking to keep it healthy, consider serving a platter of air fryer roasted vegetables. Seasoned with herbs and olive oil, they make a fantastic side dish that harmonizes with the soup’s flavors.

7. Rice or Pasta: For an extra hearty meal, you can serve the soup over a bed of cooked rice or your favorite pasta. It adds an extra layer of comfort to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this Tuscan soup recipe:

• Vegetarian / Vegan Delight: Omit the chicken and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
• Gluten-Free Options: If you’re gluten-sensitive, swap almond flour for gluten-free oat flour or a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour.
• Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to toss in your favorite vegetables. This soup is a canvas for culinary exploration.

Storage and Freezer Instructions

This Tuscan Chicken Soup makes for fantastic leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To freeze, portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to 2-3 months.

Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why Make Tuscan Bean Soup?

Our hearty vegetable soup is a delightful and hearty dish that offers numerous reasons to be on your menu rotation. Here’s why you should consider making this mouthwatering soup:

1. Flavor Explosion: This soup combines a medley of vegetables, aromatic spices, and protein to create a flavor explosion that will tantalize your taste buds.

2. Versatility: Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer a plant-based diet, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your preferences.

3. Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with vegetables, beans, and lean protein, this soup is a wholesome option that provides essential nutrients.

4. Comfort Food: There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup. It’s perfect for soothing the soul on a chilly day or when you’re feeling under the weather.

5. Leftovers Galore: This recipe yields generous servings, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Enjoy leftovers for days or freeze them for later.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make this soup without chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is highly versatile. You can omit the chicken or substitute it with your preferred plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.

2. What if I don’t have almond flour?

No worries. You can substitute almond flour with gluten-free oat flour or a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. Regular all-purpose flour works just as well if you’re not following a gluten-free diet.

3. Can I customize the vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or use what you have on hand. This soup is a canvas for culinary creativity.

4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To freeze, portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

5. Is this soup spicy?

The soup has a mild spice level due to the optional crushed red pepper flakes. You can adjust the heat by adding more or omitting them entirely according to your preference.

More healthy soup recipes you will love:

Instant Pot Minestrone Soup

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Crock Pot Chicken Enchilada Soup

4.34 from 12 votes

Print

Tuscan Bean Soup

Prep Time

15 mins

Cook Time

25 mins

Total Time

40 mins

 

This easy Tuscan Bean Soup recipe, blends a symphony of vibrant veggies, juicy tomatoes, aromatic Italian-inspired spices, and hearty beans. Wholesome, cozy and the perfect comforting meal on a chilly day.

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: chicken soup recipes, vegetable soup recipe

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 144 kcal

Author: Kelly

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
• 3 tablespoon vegan butter , you can also sub with coconut oil, ghee or unsalted butter if not dairy-free
• 1 medium onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 3 cups chopped carrots
• 3 cups chopped celery
• 1 large zucchini , chopped
• 1 red bell pepper , chopped
• ¼ cup finely almond flour , you can also sub with gluten-free oat flour or 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. Regular all purpose flour works too if you're not gluten-free.
• 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
• 1 19 oz. can cannellini beans drained and rinsed
• 1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes undrained
• 1 cup diced cooked chicken breast , feel free to use rotisserie, grilled, air fried or baked. Omit for plant-based or sub with any cooked protein of your choice.
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves chopped
• 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• salt and pepper to taste

Additional Toppings:

• fresh parsley
• vegan parmesan cheese can also use regular or omit

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the butter and olive oil. Add in the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and saute for about 4-5 minutes, until tender and fragrant. Stir in the zucchini and red pepper and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened. Sprinkle in the flour to create a roux and cook for another minute. Slowly add 1 cup of the chicken broth while continuously stirring until it starts to thicken and comes together. Then slowly pour in the remaining chicken broth.
2. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, beans and entire can of tomatoes.
3. Bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Add the chicken and reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
4. Stir in the spinach and cider vinegar and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until everything is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese, if desired.

Recipe Notes

How to store: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

How to freeze: Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep well for up to 2-3 months.

Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Facts

Tuscan Bean Soup

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 144 Calories from Fat 72

% Daily Value*

Fat 8g12%

Carbohydrates 14g5%

Fiber 3g12%

Sugar 4g4%

Protein 2g4%

* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.