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There’s an undeniable comfort that comes from a steaming bowl of White Bean and Tomato Soup. The moment you lift the lid and inhale the fragrant aroma of simmering garlic and fresh herbs, you can’t help but feel your worries melting away. I discovered this recipe during a chilly afternoon when all I wanted was something warm to cradle between my hands.

As I savored each spoonful, I realized that this soup isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about connecting with the simple yet robust flavors of home-cooked goodness. Made with rich cannellini beans and ripe tomatoes, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up while elevating your kitchen to a cozy haven. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or an elevated gathering with friends, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. So grab your biggest pot and let’s transform ordinary ingredients into a crowd-pleasing masterpiece!

Why is White Bean And Tomato Soup irresistible?

Comforting Warmth: This soup envelops you in warmth, ideal for chilly nights with its rich, steamy flavors.
Easy & Quick: With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy a wholesome meal without stress.
Versatile Base: Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or proteins, making it your own with every batch.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: It’s a hit with everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts. Serve it at gatherings or cozy dinners!
Nutritious Delight: Packed with fiber-rich beans and fresh vegetables, it’s nourishing without sacrificing taste.

This is a recipe that definitely fits into your weeknight menu or special occasions.

White Bean And Tomato Soup Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this nourishing bowl of comfort!

For the Soup Base

500 grams dried Cannellini beans – These beans add creaminess; you may substitute with navy or great northern beans if needed.
2 ½ liters boiling hot water – For a deeper flavor, you can mix half water with half vegetable stock.
160 grams onion finely chopped – Provides a sweet base flavor when sautéed.
1 bay leaf – Infuses a subtle, earthy flavor during cooking.
2 carrots sliced ½ cm (¼ inch thick) – Adds natural sweetness and texture to the soup.
150 grams chopped celery – Include some leaves for added flavor and freshness.
150 grams extra ripe tomato – Hand grated tomatoes deliver a fresh taste; avoid using canned for best results.
1 tablespoon tomato paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor, enhancing the soup’s richness.

For Finishing Touches

160 ml extra virgin olive oil – Drizzle some raw with the soup for a luxurious finish.
Freshly ground pepper – Adds seasoning; adjust to taste for a bit of kick.
Hot red pepper flakes or 1 small chili pepper (optional) – For those who love a little heat, this brings a delightful zing!

Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a heartfelt White Bean And Tomato Soup that will warm your soul!

How to Make White Bean And Tomato Soup

Soak the Beans: Begin by soaking the cannellini beans in plenty of water for about 1 hour at room temperature. This helps soften them for cooking and enhances their creamy texture.
Boil and Drain: Half fill a large cooking pot with water and add the soaked beans. Bring to a boil over high heat, cooking for 2-3 minutes before draining them in a strainer. This step helps remove any impurities.
Simmer the Base: Return the beans to the pot and pour in 10 cups of boiling hot water or vegetable stock. Add the bay leaf and chopped onion, seasoning with salt. Bring everything to a boil.
Low Heat Simmer: Lower the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour. The beans should be tender and flavors will start developing beautifully.
Add the Veggies: Stir in the tomato paste, grated tomatoes, chopped celery, sliced carrots, and olive oil. If you’re using a chili pepper for some heat, now’s the time to add it. Season with freshly ground pepper.
Medium Heat Magic: Increase the heat to medium, cover the pot, and let it simmer for another 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. The soup will thicken and the flavors will meld together wonderfully.
Thicken Up: Stir often on medium-high heat until the soup reaches your desired thickness. This will make each bowl even more heartwarming and rich.
Stand and Serve: Allow the soup to stand for 15 minutes, partly covered, before serving. This resting period helps enhance the flavors and thickens it even further.
Garnish Delight: Serve with a drizzle of raw extra virgin olive oil, a generous amount of freshly ground pepper, and hot red pepper flakes if you’re in the mood for a kick!

Optional: Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal experience.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with White Bean And Tomato Soup?

Nothing complements the warm, hearty goodness of a bowl of soup better than the perfect side dish or drink.

Crusty Bread: A rustic, crunchy bread is ideal for dipping and adds a satisfying texture to the soup.
Simple Garden Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the soup, making for a refreshing pair.
Garlic Bread: The irresistible aromatics of garlic complement the tomato and bean flavors superbly while offering a crispy side.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweeter notes from roasted carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini add depth and earthiness, elevating the meal.
Cheese Toasties: Melty cheese sandwiches bring a comforting, indulgent contrast, perfect for a cozy evening.
Spicy Sausage Rolls: The savory spice in sausage rolls pairs beautifully with the bean soup’s smoothness for a delightful bite.
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp white wine enhances the fresh tomato flavors while palate-cleansing between savory spoonfuls.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, classic cookies pair charmingly with a warm bowl of soup, creating a delightful ending to your meal.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful White Bean And Tomato Soup make the perfect candidate for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can soak the cannellini beans up to 24 hours in advance, which not only softens them but also enhances their creaminess. Additionally, you can prepare the soup base (steps 3 to 5) 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply warm it on medium heat, stir in the final touches (like the olive oil and fresh spices), and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy the same comforting flavors of your homemade White Bean And Tomato Soup without the stress!

Expert Tips for White Bean And Tomato Soup

Soak Wisely: Soaking the beans is crucial! It not only reduces cooking time but also helps create that creamy texture in your white bean and tomato soup.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for extra ripe tomatoes instead of canned. The fresher the ingredients, the richer the flavor will be in your comforting soup.
Check Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Adding salt at the right time ensures each flavor shines through in the final dish.
Simmer Patiently: Low and slow is the name of the game. Allowing the soup to simmer for a full hour enhances its flavor and brings warmth to each bite.
Rest for Flavor: Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the soup sit for 15 minutes after cooking allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully.
Garnish Creatively: Finish with a dash of extra virgin olive oil and freshly ground pepper—it elevates your white bean and tomato soup from good to unforgettable!

White Bean And Tomato Soup Variations

Your cooking adventure doesn’t have to stop here—explore these delightful twists to make this recipe your own!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant, earthy flavor that elevates the soup. These herbs bring a garden-fresh taste that complements the beans beautifully.
Creamy Spin: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture without added dairy. This makes the soup incredibly comforting, akin to a warm hug in a bowl.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a few teaspoons of smoked paprika or use smoked beans for a depth of flavor that surprises the palate. It introduces an inviting warmth that makes each sip irresistible.
Protein Boost: Add diced ham, crispy bacon, or shredded chicken to increase heartiness and satisfy hungry appetites. This not only packs in flavor but also turns the soup into a filling meal.
Vegetable Medley: Throw in some zucchini, spinach, or kale for added nutrition and vibrant color. These additions enhance the visual appeal and add layers of flavor and texture to enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat with additional chili flakes or diced jalapeños for fellow spice lovers. This twist provides an exhilarating kick that will awaken your taste buds!
Lemon Zing: Stir in a splash of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest right before serving for a bright, zesty finish. This elevates the whole dish and leaves a refreshing aftertaste.
Grainy Delight: Serve over cooked quinoa or farro for extra texture and nutrition. This transforms it into a hearty bowl, making it perfect for a fulfilling lunch or dinner.

How to Store and Freeze White Bean And Tomato Soup

Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool before sealing to maintain its rich flavors and prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for single portions. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Texture Tip: If the soup thickens while stored, add a splash of water or vegetable stock during reheating for a creamy consistency.

White Bean And Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my beans are ripe enough to use?
Absolutely! Look for cannellini beans that are whole, firm, and have a smooth surface. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel too soft, as these may indicate they’ve been damaged or are old.

What is the best way to store leftover White Bean And Tomato Soup?
For optimal storage, allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re storing for longer, see the freezing instructions below!

Can I freeze White Bean And Tomato Soup?
Yes, you can! Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low heat, adding a bit of water or vegetable stock if needed to restore its creamy texture.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
Very often, soups can thicken during storage! Simply add a splash of water or vegetable stock while reheating and stir well until you reach your desired consistency. This will revive the lovely creaminess without compromising flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
For those with allergies, be mindful of the olive oil and any spices you choose to add. This recipe is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by ensuring the vegetable stock is plant-based. If you’re cooking for pets, avoid adding any harmful ingredients like onions or garlic, as these can be toxic to them.

Can I substitute ingredients in the White Bean And Tomato Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! You can swap out cannellini beans for navy or great northern beans if you prefer. Replace the vegetables with whatever you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to make it your own while still enjoying the hearty flavors. Experimentation is part of the fun in the kitchen!