There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of soup when the temperature dips, and this Creamy Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup embodies that warm embrace. The rich and hearty combination of fire-roasted tomatoes and nutty parmesan creates an umami sensation that lingers delightfully. With protein-packed cannellini beans and fresh spinach, this dish not only satisfies the soul but also nourishes the body. What I adore most about this one-pot wonder is its incredible versatility—feeling playful? Toss in some cooked sausage or pasta for an extra heartiness! Plus, it comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight or a weekend gathering with friends. Who can resist that? So, grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into all the deliciousness this recipe has to offer. Are you ready to savor every spoonful?
Why is this soup a must-try?
Creamy Comfort: Dive into a bowl of creamy goodness that wraps you in warmth on chilly nights. This soup is all about satisfying your cravings and providing that home-cooked feel.
Quick & Easy: In just 45 minutes, you can have an inviting one-pot meal ready to enjoy with family or friends. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade deliciousness!
Customizable: Feeling inspired? You can easily make this recipe your own by adding cooked sausage, pasta, or making it dairy-free. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritious Delight: With protein-rich cannellini beans and vibrant spinach, you’re not just treating your taste buds; you’re nourishing your body. Perfect for those who want to eat well without sacrificing flavor.
Pairing Perfection: Serve with a slice of Garlic Parmesan Focaccia or a side salad, and you have an impressive meal that will please everyone at the table!
Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Fire-roasted tomatoes – Adds a smoky depth of flavor; you can use regular canned tomatoes if fire-roasted aren’t on hand.
• Vegetable stock – Serves as the flavorful foundation for the soup; feel free to use chicken stock for added richness if you prefer.
• Onion – Provides a savory aroma and enhances overall flavor; yellow or white onion works beautifully here.
• Garlic – Elevates the taste with its aromatic touch; fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
For the Main Ingredients
• Cannellini beans – Offers protein and heartiness to the dish; if unavailable, Great Northern or Navy beans are great substitutions.
• Spinach – Brings vibrant color and nutrients; swap it for kale or Swiss chard if desired.
For the Creamy Touch
• Parmesan cheese – Infuses that irresistible umami flavor; remember to save the rind for extra depth, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
• Cream (or coconut milk) – Adds creaminess to the soup; use less for a lighter version or omit if necessary for a dairy-free meal.
For Flavor Enhancement
• Olive oil – Ideal for sautéing your veggies and adding healthy fats; butter or a neutral oil can also do the trick.
• Italian herbs (oregano, basil) – These elevate the flavor to new heights; both fresh and dried herbs work well for seasoning.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add one chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This will form the flavorful base for your Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Once the onion is ready, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is aromatic but not browned. This quick step infuses the oil with delicious garlic flavor, enhancing the savory essence of the soup.
Step 3: Stir in Tomatoes and Broth
Next, stir in a 28-ounce can of fire-roasted tomatoes along with 4 cups of vegetable stock. Sprinkle in your preferred Italian herbs, like oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, allowing it to bubble softly for about 5 minutes. This will meld the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Incorporate Cannellini Beans
Now, add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. You’ll notice the soup thickening and the flavors deepening as the beans warm up, creating a hearty base for your dish.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream
After 20 minutes, fold in 4 cups of fresh spinach and 1 cup of cream, stirring well. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through. The cream will give your Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup a rich and creamy texture to enjoy.
Step 6: Optional Thickening Technique
For a thicker soup, use a fork or a potato masher to gently mash a portion of the softened beans against the side of the pot, stirring to combine. Alternatively, blend part of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot. This will enhance the soup’s creaminess without needing extra ingredients.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Finally, taste your Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once it’s finished, serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this nutritious and satisfying dish!
What to Serve with Creamy Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup
Craving the perfect accompaniments to elevate your cozy soup experience? Let’s explore delicious pairings that will take your meal to the next level.
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Crusty Artisan Bread: This hearty bread is perfect for dipping and absorbs the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. A warm slice adds a comforting crunch to each bite.
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Garlic Parmesan Focaccia: With its aromatic garlic and cheesy topping, this bread enhances the savory depth of the soup, inviting delightful flavor contrasts.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vibrant greens and a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the soup, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring an earthy flavor that complements the soup’s creamy texture. Their caramelized edges add a delightful sweetness, creating a harmonious balance.
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Italian Sausage: For those looking to add heartiness, incorporating slices of cooked Italian sausage provides a savory richness that rounds out the meal wonderfully.
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Sautéed Spinach: Keep it simple with a side of lightly sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic. This boosts the dish’s nutritional value and echoes the soup’s main ingredient.
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Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of white wine adds a crisp finish to the meal, its acidity pairing perfectly with the creamy tomato soup for an elevated dining experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, serve warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey centers provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup, making for a memorable finish.
Each of these pairings brings unique textures and flavors, ensuring a heartwarming and satisfying experience with your creamy Parmesan tomato cannellini bean soup. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup
• Flavor Infusion: Ensure the parmesan rind is added early in the cooking to maximize flavor infusion, creating a richer broth.
• Reheating Rescue: If the soup thickens when reheating, simply add a splash of vegetable stock to restore its creamy consistency.
• Perfect Spinach Texture: Add spinach at the end of cooking to keep its vibrant color and nutritious qualities intact. Avoid overcooking!
• Bean Convenience: If using dried beans, pre-cook them in advance to save time. Canned beans are a great shortcut for a quick meal.
• Versatile Customization: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Swap in ingredients like sausage or pasta for heartier versions of your Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can chop the onions and mince the garlic up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cannellini beans can also be prepped early—just drain and rinse them the night before for easy addition. Once you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, follow the rest of the cooking instructions, and stir in your spinach and cream just before simmering. This way, you’ll maintain that fresh vibrant color and delicate texture, giving you comforting, delicious results with minimal effort!
Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and make this soup uniquely yours!
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Meat Lover’s Delight: Add cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for a protein-packed punch. The addition enhances the soup’s heartiness, making every bowl feel extra satisfying.
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Pasta Twist: Stir in small pasta, like ditalini or orzo, for a more filling meal. This twist will transform the soup into a comforting one-pot pasta dish—perfect for chilly evenings!
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk or simply skip it for a lighter soup. Your taste buds will rejoice in the creamy texture without the dairy!
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Enhanced Flavor: Toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some delightful heat. It adds a vibrant kick that livens up the flavors beautifully!
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Vegetable Boost: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition and texture. Their fresh crunch will elevate your soup to a whole new level!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. A sprinkle just before serving will add that aromatic touch, brightening the overall flavor of the soup.
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Nutty Flavor: For an exciting twist, add a handful of toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a delightful crunch. The nuttiness will complement the soup’s creaminess beautifully!
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Savory Beans: Mix in chickpeas or lentils for a protein-packed twist that adds a new texture to your dish. It transforms your soup into a vibrant, hearty meal that’s both wholesome and delicious!
If you’re looking for delightful sides to pair with your soup, don’t forget to check out this easy-to-make Garlic Parmesan Focaccia or enjoy it as a rich accompaniment to a fresh salad like in our Tomato Orzo Soup for double the comfort!
How to Store and Freeze Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup
Fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To avoid mushy spinach, it’s best to omit spinach before freezing, and add it fresh while reheating.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer the soup to a pot and gently reheat on the stove. Add a splash of broth to restore creaminess if it thickens.
Serving Tip: For the best flavor, always taste and adjust seasoning after reheating your Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup!
Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best fire-roasted tomatoes?
When choosing fire-roasted tomatoes, look for brands that highlight they are “fire-roasted” on the label. They should have a rich, deep color without dark spots all over, which can indicate overripeness. If you can’t find fire-roasted, regular canned tomatoes work just fine; consider adding a touch of smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
How should I properly store the soup?
I’ll tell you! Transfer any leftover soup into an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid steaming, which can lead to spoilage. If you’re making this ahead of time for meal prep, you’ll love how easy it is to enjoy later!
Can I freeze this Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the soup cool, then pour it into an airtight container but remember to omit spinach before freezing. You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it on the stove and stir in freshly cooked spinach for vibrant color and nutrients!
What can I do if the soup is too thick upon reheating?
No worries there! If you find that your soup has thickened up during storage or reheating, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back to your preferred consistency. Heat it gently on the stove, stirring well, and it will be as good as new. Always taste and adjust the seasoning after reheating for the best flavor.
Is this soup suitable for those with dietary allergies?
If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, it’s very customizable! To make it dairy-free, skip the parmesan and cream and try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Just to be safe, always check the ingredient labels on canned items for potential allergens like preservatives or gluten.
Can I add different proteins to this soup?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking to boost the protein, feel free to add cooked sausage, chicken, or even beans for a vegetarian option. For sausage or chicken, cook them separately first and then mix them in while the soup is simmering to allow those delicious flavors to meld perfectly. The more the merrier in this hearty dish!
Hearty Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add one chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Once the onion is ready, add 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot and sauté for an additional minute.
- Next, stir in a 28-ounce can of fire-roasted tomatoes along with 4 cups of vegetable stock and your preferred Italian herbs. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Fold in 4 cups of fresh spinach and 1 cup of cream, stirring well. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- For a thicker soup, mash a portion of the softened beans against the side of the pot or blend part of the soup and return it.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread.
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