Name: Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Tuscan
Ingredients: 3 15-ounce cans cannellini beans (drained and rinsed); 2 1/2 – 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (see notes); 1 yellow onion (finely chopped); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 large carrots (peeled and chopped); 1 stalk celery (diced); 2 cups chopped kale (stems removed, finely chopped); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/3 cup white wine (pinot grigio recommended); 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, omit if you don’t like spice); 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

If you are looking for a cozy, flavorful, and nourishing dish to warm your soul, this Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is a must-try. Packed with tender cannellini beans, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant Italian herbs, this soup delivers a harmonious blend of creamy texture and bold flavors. Each spoonful offers a taste of rustic Tuscany, making it a perfect meal for any day you crave comfort and wholesome goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of several clear glass bowls and loose ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl, positioned at the upper right, holds a full pile of white beans. Below and slightly left are smaller dishes containing varied spices like black pepper, oregano, red chili flakes, and salt, each with different textures and colors ranging from light brown to dark green and red. There is a raw white onion next to a small bowl with a pale yellow liquid, likely oil, and another with a transparent liquid, possibly vinegar. Two orange carrots and a green celery stalk lie side by side to the lower left of the bowls. Fresh bright green kale leaves form a thick bunch below the carrots and celery. A woman's hand slightly visible is holding a white bowl filled with pale yellow zucchini ribbons or shavings toward the right. A beige cloth is partially seen at the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a soup full of depth and character. Every item plays an important role—from the silky beans and aromatic garlic to the bright kale and savory spices, making sure each bite is comforting and satisfying.

Cannellini beans: These creamy white beans are the star of the soup, adding protein and a luscious texture.
Yellow onion: Finely chopped, it provides a sweet and savory base.
Garlic: Minced cloves add a robust, aromatic punch that makes the soup irresistible.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing, it adds richness and depth to the flavor.
Carrots: Peeled and chopped, they bring a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
Celery stalk: Diced to add gentle earthiness and texture.
White wine (Pinot Grigio recommended): Adds acidity and brightness, lifting the overall flavor profile.
Kale: Chopped and stems removed, it introduces a fresh, slightly bitter note and beautiful green hues.
Vegetable or chicken broth: This forms the flavorful, hearty soup base; the amount can be adjusted for desired thickness.
Tomato paste: Offers umami richness and a hint of tanginess.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the other ingredients.
Red pepper flakes: Optional for a touch of heat and warmth.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup its Tuscan character.
Bay leaves: Infuse subtle aromatic complexity.
Dried thyme and oregano: Classic herbs that add earthiness and depth to every spoonful.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven until shimmering. Toss in the finely chopped yellow onion and sweat it gently until it becomes translucent and starts to brown just a little. This first step builds a fragrant, flavorful foundation.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the minced garlic, diced celery, and chopped carrots to the pot. Continue sautéing for about 10 minutes, allowing these veggies to soften and develop golden edges. This browning is key, unlocking rich, sweet notes that intensify the final soup.

Step 3: Pour in the White Wine

Introduce the white wine to the pot and cook until most of the liquid evaporates, about five minutes. This addition adds a subtle acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the beans and veggies.

Step 4: Combine All Remaining Ingredients Except Kale

Add the drained cannellini beans, tomato paste, bay leaves, Italian seasoning, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and 2 1/2 cups of your chosen broth to the pot. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the tomato paste is evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes to meld the flavors and soften all the ingredients into a harmonious blend.

Step 6: Blend Part of the Soup

Remove and discard the bay leaves, then carefully transfer about 2 1/2 to 3 cups of soup into a blender. Pulse until smooth and creamy, then pour it back into the pot. This step adds luxurious body to the soup while keeping plenty of chunks for texture. Adjust the thickness with more broth if desired.

Step 7: Add the Kale and Final Seasoning

Stir in the finely chopped kale and let the soup simmer for a few more minutes so the greens wilt perfectly. Now is the perfect moment to taste and tweak the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.

Step 8: Serve Warm and Enjoy!

The Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is now ready to warm your heart. Ladle it into bowls and serve immediately while warm and inviting.

How to Serve Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe

A white pot filled with a thick soup showing multiple layers of colors and textures. The base layer is creamy with a light yellowish color mixed with small chunks of light orange and white, likely vegetables. On top of this, bright green leafy bits are scattered evenly, adding freshness. There are small red flakes spread all over the surface, giving a spicy touch, and a few sesame seeds to add texture. The pot rests on a white marbled surface with a folded white and gray striped cloth next to the right handle. A couple of green leaves are scattered on the surface near the pot. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese takes this soup to the next level, adding salty, creamy richness. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or some freshly chopped parsley or basil adds freshness and a beautiful finish every time.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with rustic crusty bread or garlic bread, perfect for dipping into every creamy spoonful. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can round out the meal while keeping the spotlight on the nourishing soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in charming rustic bowls with a side of lemon wedges for an optional bright burst. For an elegant touch, swirl in a dollop of pesto before serving or add toasted pine nuts on top for a delightful crunch and contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious on day two!

Freezing

This soup freezes really well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months without losing its comforting flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts, stirring between. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if it has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Can I use dried cannellini beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just soak and cook the dried beans ahead of time until tender, then proceed with the recipe. Using dried beans can intensify the flavor, but requires extra prep time.

Is this soup vegetarian?

Yes, it is! Just be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully vegetarian-friendly without compromising taste.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely. The recipe calls for red pepper flakes, but feel free to increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring some heat based on your preference.

What can I substitute for kale?

Swiss chard, spinach, or collard greens are excellent alternatives that will provide a similar hearty texture and color to the soup.

How thick should the soup be?

The Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is traditionally creamy but still spoonable, so aim for a medium-thick consistency. You can always adjust by adding more or less broth to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a warm hug in a bowl. I hope you enjoy every step of making it and find it as comforting and flavorful as I do. So gather your ingredients, spend some time in the kitchen, and let this soup bring a little taste of Tuscany to your table.