Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

If you’re searching for a comforting, nourishing meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, look no further than Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup. This hearty and vibrant soup blends creamy cannellini beans, rich tomato flavors, and the savory depth of Parmesan cheese to create a dish that truly heals both body and soul. Perfect for anyone seeking wholesome ingredients combined in a way that delights the palate and fuels your well-being.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comfort in a bowl: This soup offers a velvety texture and robust flavor that soothes and satisfies.
  • Nutrient-packed: With protein-rich beans and antioxidant-rich tomatoes, it supports your body’s healing processes.
  • Easy to make: Uses simple, everyday ingredients with straightforward steps perfect for busy days.
  • Versatile and adaptable: You can easily tweak it for dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
  • Natural energy booster: The combination of ingredients provides lasting energy without heaviness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are wholesome but each plays a crucial role in texture, flavor, and color. Each element blends to create a vibrant, nourishing bowl that brightens your day.

  • Cannellini Beans: Provide creamy texture and plant-based protein to keep you full and satisfied.
  • San Marzano Tomatoes: These sweet, low-acid tomatoes bring rich, natural tomato flavor and vibrant color.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory umami kick and creamy finish that’s uniquely comforting.
  • Garlic and Onion: Build aromatic depth and gently sweet undertones.
  • Vegetable Broth: Creates a flavorful base while keeping the soup light and nourishing.
  • Fresh Herbs (Basil or Thyme): Add freshness and subtle earthiness to balance richness.
  • Olive Oil: Enhances texture and introduces a smooth, slightly fruity note.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance all flavors.

Variations for Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily it lends itself to customization. Whether you want to cater to dietary needs or try new flavor profiles, adapting this soup is a breeze.

  • Make it vegan: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives.
  • Add greens: Stir in spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for extra vitamins and color.
  • Spicy twist: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a warming kick.
  • Swap beans: Use white kidney beans, great northern beans, or even chickpeas to change texture.
  • Roasted tomato version: Roast your tomatoes before adding for a smoky depth.

How to Make Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by gently heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, building the flavorful base for your soup.

Step 2: Add Tomato and Broth

Pour in your crushed San Marzano tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so the flavors meld, about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Cannellini Beans

Drain and rinse canned cannellini beans, then add them to the pot. Let the soup simmer to warm the beans through and blend their creaminess with the tomato base.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

For a silky texture, use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup directly in the pot. This step is optional but elevates the mouthfeel beautifully.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Season

Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and blended. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like basil or thyme. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to marry flavors before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

  • Use quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan adds incredible depth that pre-grated powders can’t match.
  • Simmer gently: Avoid boiling aggressively; a low simmer preserves delicate flavors.
  • Don’t skip rinsing beans: Rinsing canned beans removes excess sodium and can reduce gas-causing compounds.
  • Balance acidity: If your tomatoes are too acidic, a pinch of sugar can smooth the flavor beautifully.
  • Fresh herbs at the end: Add basil or thyme at the final step for the brightest herbal notes.

How to Serve Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, or fresh basil leaves make perfect final touches that add visual appeal and bursts of flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. These sides complement the warmth and create a balanced, fulfilling meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic ceramic bowls for a cozy feel or within hollowed-out sourdough loaves for a fun, edible bowl experience that delights guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

Freeze soup in portion-sized freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing with fresh herbs or cheese; add those fresh after thawing.

Reheating

Reheat soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to restore its original consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients in Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup are naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for gluten-free diets.

Is Parmesan necessary in this soup?

While Parmesan adds a unique savory depth, you can substitute nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free or vegan version.

How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

You can safely store this soup in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when kept in an airtight container.

Can I use dried cannellini beans instead of canned?

Yes, but remember to soak and cook dried beans beforehand, which will increase preparation time significantly.

What herbs pair best with this soup?

Fresh basil and thyme are classic choices, but rosemary or oregano also complement the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup is more than just a meal—it’s an invitation to slow down, nourish your body, and indulge in a bowl of cozy happiness. Try this recipe to discover how a few humble ingredients can come together to heal and delight with every spoonful. Your kitchen and your heart will thank you.

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Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup


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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup is a comforting and nourishing meal combining creamy cannellini beans, rich San Marzano tomato flavors, and savory Parmesan cheese. This hearty soup offers a velvety texture, robust flavor, and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for chilly days when you need a warm, satisfying dish that fuels your well-being.


Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 23 garlic cloves, minced
  • 28 ounces crushed San Marzano tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth

Beans and Cheese

  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Herbs and Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or thyme, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and fragrant, building a flavorful base for the soup.
  2. Add Tomato and Broth: Pour in the crushed San Marzano tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
  3. Incorporate Cannellini Beans: Add the drained and rinsed cannellini beans to the pot. Continue simmering the soup so the beans warm through and their creaminess blends with the tomato base.
  4. Blend for Creaminess (Optional): Use an immersion blender to purée part of the soup directly in the pot for a silky texture. This step is optional but enhances the mouthfeel significantly.
  5. Add Parmesan and Season: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well blended. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Let the soup simmer a few more minutes to marry the flavors before serving.

Notes

  • Use quality freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • Simmer gently to preserve delicate flavors and avoid bitterness.
  • Rinse canned beans to reduce excess sodium and gas-causing compounds.
  • If tomatoes taste too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance.
  • Add fresh herbs at the final step for the brightest herbal flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soups
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 8mg

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