When it comes to hearty and nourishing meals, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of Italian Bean Soup. This traditional dish is celebrated across Italy for its satisfying flavors and simple ingredients. Known as "Zuppa di Fagioli", it has roots in humble peasant cooking, where fresh vegetables, earthy beans, and aromatic herbs come together in perfect harmony. Not only is this soup a delight to eat, but it’s also packed with fiber, protein, and a wealth of nutrients, making it a great choice for a wholesome dinner.
Whether you're seeking comfort on a chilly evening or a healthy meal to feed the whole family, this Italian Bean Soup is a must-try. Follow this recipe and bring a bit of Italy to your kitchen!
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to prepare this hearty soup (serves 4-6):
For the Soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional for Serving:
- A drizzle of olive oil
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- A sprinkle of red chili flakes
- Crusty bread or Italian-style focaccia
How to Make Italian Bean Soup
Follow these easy steps to prepare this comforting dish:
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Add the Garlic and Herbs
Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the fragrant aroma of the herbs to fill your kitchen.
3. Combine Broth, Tomatoes, and Beans
Pour in the vegetable broth and canned tomatoes (with juices). Stir well to combine. Add the cannellini beans and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer for 25-30 minutes. This lets all the flavors blend beautifully, giving the soup its rich and hearty taste.
5. Finish with Greens
Five minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale or spinach. They’ll wilt perfectly into the soup, adding a pop of color and a boost of vitamins.
6. Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or red chili flakes for a little kick.
Serve with slices of crusty Italian bread for dipping, and enjoy the comforting bowl of goodness!
Tips for Customizing Your Soup
- Make it heartier by adding small pasta, like ditalini or orzo, during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Chunky or smooth? If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
- Add some protein by including Italian sausage or pancetta early in the cooking process.
- Experiment with beans. While cannellini beans are traditional, you can use Great Northern beans, butter beans, or chickpeas.
A Taste of Italian Tradition All Year Round
Italian Bean Soup proves that simple ingredients can create unforgettable meals. It's a dish rooted in Italian culture, where food brings people together and nourishes both the body and soul. Whether you serve it as a starter or the main event, this soup's earthy flavors and robust character are sure to earn high praise at your table.
Make a big pot, share it with loved ones, and savor the warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Buon appetito!
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