Craving a comforting and nutritious meal that's both quick to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this vibrant Italian Bean Soup! This recipe delivers a hearty and satisfying experience, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Packed with protein-rich beans, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it's a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the authentic taste of Italy without spending hours in the kitchen. The simple yet flavorful broth is the star, showcasing the natural sweetness of the ingredients and leaving you feeling wonderfully nourished.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this Italian Bean Soup is surprisingly easy to prepare. Ready to dive into the simple steps that will transform humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece? Let's get started with our easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Potato masher
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Celery
- Onion
- Carrot
- Salt
- Pepper
- Great Northern beans (or cannellini beans): 3 cans
- Garlic
- Smoked chicken sausage (or ham)
- Chicken stock
- Fresh rosemary: 1-2 tablespoons (or 1-2 teaspoons dried)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Crusty bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a pot. Add Italian seasoning.
- Dice celery, onion, and carrot. Add to the pot and sauté until softened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Add minced garlic and sauté briefly.
- Add diced smoked chicken sausage (or ham, if using).
Step 2. Combine and Simmer
- Drain and rinse three cans of Great Northern beans (or cannellini beans). Add to the pot.
- Pour in chicken stock.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 3. Thicken and Finish
- Finely chop fresh rosemary and add to the soup.
- Mash some of the beans with a potato masher to thicken the soup.
- Add parmesan cheese (optional).
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Read more: Italian Zucchini Soup with Parmesan Croutons: A Delicious Recipe
Tips
- Season the soup as you go for the best flavor.
- Finely chop the rosemary to release its flavor fully.
- This soup freezes well.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 350-450
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 40-50g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! Canned beans are a great time-saver. Just make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
2. How can I make this soup vegan?
Simply omit the pancetta or any other meat products. Ensure your vegetable broth is vegetarian/vegan friendly.
This quick and healthy Italian bean soup is a perfect example of how delicious and nutritious food can be simple to prepare. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal any day of the week, knowing you've nourished your body with wholesome ingredients. Buon appetito!