Pin There is nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup with Italian Sausage to warm your soul on a chilly evening. This hearty, rustic dish combines the savory richness of Italian sausage with creamy cannellini beans and a vibrant medley of vegetables, all simmered together in a fragrant, herb-infused broth. It is a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that brings the authentic flavors of an Italian kitchen straight to your table.
Pin This recipe is a celebration of classic Mediterranean ingredients. By browning the sausage first and then sautéing the aromatic vegetables in those savory juices, you build layers of flavor that make the final soup taste like it has been simmering all day. Whether you choose mild or spicy sausage, the result is a perfectly balanced broth that pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread.
Ingredients
- Meats: 500 g (1 lb) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium zucchini, diced; 120 g (4 oz) baby spinach (about 4 cups); 400 g (14 oz) canned diced tomatoes, undrained
- Beans: 2 cans (400 g/14 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Broth & Liquids: 1.5 liters (6 cups) low-sodium chicken broth; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Herbs & Spices: 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove excess fat if needed.
- Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add Zucchini and Spices
- Add zucchini and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Simmer
- Add cannellini beans and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
- Step 5: Finish with Spinach
- Stir in baby spinach and simmer for 2–3 minutes, until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Step 6: Serve
- Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, make sure to brown the sausage well, as those browned bits at the bottom of the pot (the fond) add incredible depth to the broth. If you prefer a thicker soup, use a wooden spoon to mash a small portion of the cannellini beans against the side of the pot during the simmering stage.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead, perhaps adding more beans for protein. If you are following a gluten-free diet, simply ensure your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free. You can also swap the spinach for kale if you prefer a hardier green.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this rustic soup with a side of toasted sourdough or a warm baguette for dipping. It pairs exceptionally well with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wine. A final dusting of freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and saltiness that rounds out the dish perfectly.
Pin This Tuscan White Bean Soup with Italian Sausage is a timeless classic that brings comfort and nourishment in every spoonful. Whether you are hosting a casual dinner or looking for a healthy weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy the warm, savory flavors of Italy from the comfort of your own home!
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, omit the Italian sausage and use vegetable broth instead. You can add extra beans for a protein boost.
- → What type of beans work best in this soup?
Cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the sausage and vegetables well.
- → How can I make the soup creamier?
Mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the broth to achieve a thicker, creamier consistency.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of this dish?
Dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary add a fragrant, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the sausage and vegetables.
- → Can I substitute the Italian sausage with another meat?
Yes, mild or spicy Italian sausage works best, but you can also use other flavorful sausages to suit your taste.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free sausage and broth. Always check ingredient labels to be sure.