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When the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul. Enter Tuscan Escarole and Beans Soup — a hearty, nutritious dish that embodies the rustic flavors of Italy. This delightful soup is packed with tender escarole, creamy white beans, and a touch of garlic, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth. It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and joy to every spoonful!
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Soup
This soup is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make and can be on your table in no time. With its wholesome ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a fantastic way to nourish your body and warm your heart. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your own Tuscan Escarole and Beans Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 head of escarole, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Serving Size
Serves: 4
Serving Size: About 1.5 cups of soup
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
Start with the Aromatics
- Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. - Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Build the Soup
- Pour in the Broth
Add the broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. - Add the Beans
Stir in the drained white beans, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the Greens
- Incorporate the Escarole
Add the chopped escarole to the pot, stirring until it wilts down, which should take about 5 minutes.
Finish the Soup
- Lemon Zest and Serve
Once the escarole is tender, stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. - Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and enjoy your flavorful creation!
Final Thoughts
This Tuscan Escarole and Beans Soup is a simple yet delightful dish that showcases the beauty of Italian cuisine. It’s perfect for any night of the week and can easily be adapted with whatever vegetables or beans you have on hand.
The combination of escarole’s slight bitterness, the creaminess of the beans, and the brightness of the lemon creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. So, the next time you need a cozy meal, grab your pot and whip up this comforting soup!
