Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup
Cozy Up with Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup: A Hearty Mediterranean Delight
As the weather cools, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup. This Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s packed with goodness and incredibly easy to make. Inspired by the rustic flavors of Italy and the healthy traditions of the Mediterranean diet, this soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
This isn’t just any bean and kale soup. We’ve focused on building layers of flavor with simple ingredients. The combination of hearty cannellini beans, nutrient-rich kale, and savory ham creates a truly satisfying experience. It’s a fantastic way to get your veggies in and enjoy a delicious, wholesome meal.
What makes this Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup special?
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have many of these pantry staples already!
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or meal prep for the week.
- Flavorful: The combination of beans, kale, and ham creates a delicious and satisfying taste.
Tips for the Best Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup:
- Bean Choice: Cannellini beans are traditional, but great northern or navy beans work well too.
- Kale Massage: For even more tender kale, massage it with a little olive oil before adding it to the soup.
- Broth Quality: Using a good quality chicken broth makes a big difference in the overall flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a delicious plant-based version.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
A: Yes! You’ll need about 1 cup of dried beans. Soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q: What can I serve with this soup?
A: Crusty bread for dipping is a classic pairing. A simple side salad also complements the soup nicely.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the ingredients in your broth to ensure they are also gluten-free.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or potatoes.
We hope you enjoy this comforting and flavorful Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup! It’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Tuscan Bean & Kale Soup
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp canola oil
- 2/3 C chopped onion
- 2 stalks celery sliced or chopped
- 1/2 C carrot sliced or chopped
- 2 C diced ham
- 2 15-oz cans cannellini or other white beans drained and well-rinsed
- 2 14-oz cans chicken broth or 4 cups homemade chicken broth, or 1 32-ounce box chicken broth
- 1 C water
- 1 tsp seasonings
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste optional
- 3-4 C kale
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
- Add ham, beans, broth, water, seasonings, and tomato paste (if using) to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add kale and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until celery and carrots are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more water if the broth is too salty.
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