RecipeCastle

Tuscan White Bean Soup

Tuscan White Bean Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 lbturkey bacon: A hearty alternative to traditional bacon (turkey bacon provides a smoky flavor while being lower in fat and calories.)
  • 1large yellow onion (diced: Onions add a sweet and savory base to the soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.)
  • 3ribs celery (diced: Celery introduces a fresh crunch and depth of flavor, complementing the other vegetables.)
  • 2large carrots (sliced: Carrots not only add sweetness but also vibrant color, making the soup visually appealing.)
  • 2 tspminced garlic: Garlic is essential for its aromatic qualities (bringing the dish to life with its robust flavor.)
  • 1 tbsptomato paste: Tomato paste provides a rich umami flavor and thickens the broth (contributing to the creaminess.)
  • 1 tspItalian seasoning: A blend of herbs typically used in Italian dishes (this seasoning infuses warmth and earthiness into the soup.)
  • ½ tspcrushed red pepper: A hint of spice from crushed red pepper adds warmth and a bit of zing to the flavor profile.
  • ½ tspground black pepper: Black pepper enhances the overall taste (balancing the creamy and savory elements.)
  • 4 cupschicken broth: This is the base of the soup (adding a savory depth of flavor. For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium chicken broth.)
  • 2cans Great Northern beans (drained: These beans are creamy and tender, adding heartiness and nutrition to the soup.)
  • 2 cupsfresh spinach: Spinach brings a bright color and a nutritious boost (adding vitamins and minerals.)
  • ½ cupheavy cream: Heavy cream brings richness and smoothness to the soup (creating a luxurious texture.)
  • —Parsley for garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness (enhancing the soup’s presentation.)

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large Dutch oven, brown 1 lb turkey bacon over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, until crispy. Remove and chop into bite-sized pieces.

  2. 2

    In the same pot, stir in 1 large yellow onion, diced, 3 ribs celery, diced, and 2 large carrots, sliced. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.

  3. 3

    Add 2 tsp minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. Then, stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp crushed red pepper, and ½ tsp ground black pepper. Mix well to combine.

  4. 4

    Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and add the drained beans from 2 cans Great Northern beans. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 6-7 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

  5. 5

    Reduce the heat and mix in ½ cup heavy cream and 2 cups fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts, approximately 5 minutes.

  6. 6

    Serve warm in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your delicious and heartwarming Tuscan White Bean Soup!