Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup is the perfect dish for a cozy night in. This comforting winter soup combines rich flavors and creamy textures that warm you from the inside out. Ideal for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even gatherings with friends, this soup stands out with its vibrant ingredients and hearty quality. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, Italian sausage, and lemon creates a unique and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and beans, this soup is not only tasty but also healthy and filling.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a light meal or paired with bread for a more substantial dinner. Enjoy it any time of the year!
• Easy Cleanup: Made in one pot, this recipe minimizes cleanup time while maximizing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having the right equipment makes preparing Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup effortless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Chopping board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Perfect for soups as it retains heat evenly and is large enough to hold all ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

My family’s favorite quick and easy Italian-style soup…such a yummy comforting winter soup!

Main Ingredients

• 1 jar (8 ounce) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 pound spicy Italian chicken sausage
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• 6 cups broth
• 2 cans white beans
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup whole milk or cream
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Chopped fresh parsley, for serving

How to Make Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Drain 3 tablespoons of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar into a Dutch oven.
2. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Set the pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the spicy Italian chicken sausage and chopped onion.
3. Cook while breaking up the meat until browned.
4. Stir in shallots, garlic, carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for another 5 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Pour in the broth.
2. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes over medium heat until veggies are tender.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Mix in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, white beans, cream, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and juice.
2. Cook for another few minutes until everything is warmed through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Divide the soup among bowls.
2. Top with additional parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
3. Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup with warm bread!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup is a delightful dish that warms both the heart and the soul. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Choose a hearty sourdough or a ciabatta for the best texture.

Add a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to complement the flavors.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh parsley or basil adds a vibrant touch and additional flavor. It also makes the soup visually appealing.

Serve with Cheese

• Offering grated parmesan or feta cheese on the side allows guests to customize their bowls. The saltiness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.

Include a Meat Option

• For those who prefer more protein, serve slices of grilled chicken or Italian sausage on the side. This adds heartiness to your meal.

Offer a Squeeze of Lemon

• Providing lemon wedges allows guests to brighten up their bowls with extra zest. This enhances the lemon flavor in the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

To ensure your Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavors in your soup.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of the beans before adding them back in.
• Control Spice Level: If you like it spicier, consider adding red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
• Experiment with Broth: Try using vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
• Incorporate More Greens: Adding kale or Swiss chard can boost nutrition while keeping it flavorful.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can deepen its flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup is delightful on its own, but these side dishes can complement it beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread enhances every bite of the soup while providing a crunchy contrast.
2. Caprese Salad: This classic Italian salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds freshness and brightness to your meal.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables create a satisfying pairing that’s full of flavor.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate while harmonizing with the soup’s flavors.
5. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad tossed in olive oil and vinegar offers a refreshing side that complements the creamy soup nicely.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies provides variety and texture alongside your bowl of soup.
7. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese serves as a comforting base that pairs well with the rich flavors of your soup.
8. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad loaded with veggies is not only healthy but also adds protein and fiber to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the sausage and vegetables can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always cook them until they’re browned.
• Overcooking the spinach: Adding spinach too early can make it wilted and lose its vibrant color. Stir it in just before serving for the best texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Insufficient salt and pepper can dull the soup’s flavor. Taste as you go and adjust your seasonings accordingly.
• Using low-quality broth: A good broth enhances the overall taste of your soup. Choose a flavorful broth, preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought.
• Ignoring lemon zest: The zest adds a bright flavor that complements the soup. Don’t skip this step; it makes a significant difference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• item It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

• item Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• item Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• item It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup that might help you while making this delicious dish.

Can I use different beans for this soup?

You can substitute other beans such as chickpeas or kidney beans. However, white beans provide a unique creaminess that enhances the dish.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! You can replace whole milk or cream with coconut milk or a plant-based milk alternative to maintain creaminess without dairy.

How do I adjust the spice level of this soup?

To make it spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage. For less spice, opt for mild sausage instead.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or kale for added nutrition and flavor flexibility.

How should I serve this soup?

Serve with crusty bread or over cooked grains like rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Fresh parsley adds a nice touch on top!

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite during chilly nights!

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Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Creamy Tuscan White Bean Lemon Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to chilly evenings. This hearty soup features a rich blend of sun-dried tomatoes, spicy Italian chicken sausage, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a creamy broth that’s brightened with zesty lemon. Packed with nutritious ingredients like white beans and vibrant vegetables, this recipe is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare—making it ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. In just under an hour, you can serve up a bowl of deliciousness that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

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• 1 jar (8 oz) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 lb spicy Italian chicken sausage
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 6 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 cup whole milk or cream
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven, heat the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and onion; cook until browned.
2. Stir in shallots, garlic, carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the broth and simmer for about 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, white beans, cream, lemon zest, and juice. Cook for a few more minutes until heated through.
5. Serve hot in bowls topped with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 395
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 11g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 55mg