Name: Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Tuscan
Ingredients: 1 Small Onion, diced; 2 Medium Shallots, chopped; 4 Cloves Garlic, mashed; 2 Carrots, chopped into coins; 2 Celery Stalks, diced; 3 Cups Fresh Spinach; 3 15 Ounce Cans Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed; ¼ Cup Olive Oil, extra virgin; 5-6 Cups Vegetable Broth; 2 Bay Leaves; 1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning; ½ Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes; ½ Teaspoon Sea Salt; ¼ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 30 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, nourishing, and incredibly flavorful dish, you are going to fall head over heels for this Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe. This soup is everything you want on a chilly day: thick, rich, and loaded with tender cannellini beans, aromatic vegetables, and fragrant herbs that come together in a warm bowl of pure satisfaction. Trust me when I say, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, vegan-friendly and packed with wholesome ingredients to fuel both body and soul. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or inviting friends over for a cozy night in, this soup’s rustic charm and satisfying texture will keep everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board placed on a white marbled surface. On the board, there are bright orange carrot slices and sticks arranged near the center with a small knife with a light wooden handle resting on top of the slices. To the left of the carrots are small pieces of celery scattered around, and fresh celery stalks lie next to them. On the right side of the board, fresh green spinach leaves are spread out. Above the cutting board, there is a small round bowl filled with white beans, and next to it a glass jar filled with a golden-brown liquid. To the right, there is a woven basket containing red and yellow onions plus several garlic cloves, with more garlic cloves and a loose red onion placed nearby on the surface. Near the top left corner are sprigs of fresh herbs and small bowls on the left side containing coarse salt and a mixed green spice with red chili flakes. The whole setup is arranged neatly with natural light, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple, wholesome ingredients are surprisingly essential, providing layers of flavor, texture, and that gorgeous Tuscany-inspired vibe. Each element plays a role, from the silky cannellini beans to the vibrant fresh spinach, ensuring your soup tastes fresh and hearty with every spoonful.

¼ Cup Olive Oil, extra virgin: Adds a luscious, fruity richness that forms the base of your soup.
1 Small Onion, diced: Brings a gentle sweetness and depth as it softens in the oil.
2 Medium Shallots, chopped: Infuse subtle oniony and garlicky notes to elevate the flavor.
4 Cloves Garlic, mashed: Give the soup that classic Tuscan punch and aromatic warmth.
2 Carrots, chopped into coins: Provide natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
2 Celery Stalks, diced: Add earthiness and a slight crunch that rounds out texture.
3 15 Ounce Cans Cannellini Beans, drained and rinsed: The hearty, creamy foundation that makes the soup truly filling.
2 Bay Leaves: Infuse subtle herbal undertones to build complexity.
1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties the entire flavor profile together.
½ Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes: Adds the perfect touch of gentle heat without overpowering.
5-6 Cups Vegetable Broth: The comforting liquid that melds all flavors while keeping it vegan and light.
½ Teaspoon Sea Salt: Balances and enhances every delicious bite.
¼ Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle kick for depth.
3 Cups Fresh Spinach: Brightens the soup with fresh color and a nutrient boost.

How to Make Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin your culinary journey by warming the extra virgin olive oil in a sturdy Dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, chopped shallots, and mashed garlic. Let these cook gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the kitchen fills with that irresistible savory aroma. This step lays down the foundation of flavor and ensures your soup develops that signature warmth and depth.

Step 2: Prepare and Soften the Vegetables

Next, wash and chop the carrots into coins and dice the celery. Add them to the pot, stirring them in to mingle with the softened aromatics. Let everything sauté together for 7 to 10 minutes—this patience builds incredible flavor as the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. It’s a small step but makes a huge difference in your soup’s character.

Step 3: Combine Beans and Seasonings

Drain and rinse your cannellini beans thoroughly to keep the broth clean and bright. Add the beans to your pot along with the bay leaves, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Pour in 5 to 6 cups of vegetable broth, then sprinkle in the sea salt and ground black pepper. Give everything a good stir, preparing the soup to take on that lovely simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring your soup mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This step marries all of the flavors perfectly, so take your time and let those herbs, beans, and veggies mingle and develop a rich, comforting broth.

Step 5: Blend for Creamy Texture

Carefully remove the bay leaves from the soup, then ladle about two cups of the soup into a high-speed blender. Blend it until velvety smooth and creamy. Pour the blended portion back into the pot and stir well. This blending step is the secret to that amazing, thick, and hearty texture this soup is famous for—without needing any dairy or thickening agents.

Step 6: Add Fresh Spinach

Finally, toss in the fresh spinach and stir until it wilts beautifully into the soup. This finishing touch adds vibrant color and a fresh, slightly earthy flavor that brightens the entire dish.

How to Serve Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a bowl filled with vegetable soup on a white marbled surface. The soup has a clear to light yellow broth with many white beans floating on top. There are bright orange carrot slices, dark green leafy vegetables, and chopped fresh green herbs scattered over the top. The bowl is white and filled almost to the rim, with droplets of oil and small black pepper pieces visible on the surface. Nearby, there are pieces of crusty bread with a light beige color, a silver spoon with a vintage design, and a small white dish holding red chili flakes. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your soup even more, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a few basil leaves on top just before serving. A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a silky sheen, while cracked black pepper can bring a subtle spicy note that wakes up the palate. These little touches make the soup look inviting and taste even better.

Side Dishes

This soup shines alongside a thick slice of crusty artisan bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. For a gluten-free option, try roasted sweet potatoes or a light mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal balanced but still satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving guests or want to dress it up for a special occasion, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and garnish with toasted pine nuts or crumbled vegan parmesan for a delightful crunch. Layer the spinach on the bottom and pour the soup in for a beautiful two-tone effect, or even serve in small cups as a starter at a dinner party. The options are endless and all equally delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe stores wonderfully in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so if anything, your leftovers will taste even better the next day. Simply give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this soup later, it freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep snug and fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it the perfect make-ahead comfort food.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up without sacrificing that beloved creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use other beans instead of cannellini beans?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans give the soup its characteristic creaminess and mild flavor, you can substitute with great northern beans or navy beans. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, this soup freezes very well. Just be sure to store it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and thaw it slowly before reheating to maintain its taste and texture.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

You can! Start by sautéing the aromatics on the stove, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours, adding the spinach at the very end.

How spicy is the soup?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overwhelming the flavors. If you prefer less heat, feel free to reduce or omit them altogether.

Is this recipe gluten free and vegan?

Yes, this Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe is both gluten free and vegan, making it accessible and delicious for many dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I encourage you to give this Hearty Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe a try soon—whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a cozy solo meal. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and wonderfully comforting, perfect for any season but especially when you need a nourishing hug on a chilly day. Once you taste it, you’ll see why it’s one of my absolute favorites to share with friends and family.