Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this soul-warming Italian-inspired Haricot Bean Parmesan Soup that promises to be the most delicious and comforting meal you'll make this week! Imagine a rich, creamy soup packed with tender beans, aromatic vegetables, and a luxurious Parmesan finish that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that's not just delicious, but also incredibly nutritious and easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup haricot beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the haricot beans that have been soaking overnight and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch.
- In a large soup pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced carrots to the pot, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the carrots begin to soften and the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the prepared haricot beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the beans are tender and fully cooked.
- Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once beans are tender, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to partially mash some beans, creating a slightly thicker soup consistency.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and integrate into the soup.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves for added aroma and flavor.
- Serve immediately with crusty bread or croutons for a complete meal.
Tips
- Soak your beans overnight to ensure maximum tenderness and easier digestion. If you forget to soak, you can use a quick-soak method by boiling beans for 2-3 minutes and letting them rest for an hour.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a Parmesan rind while simmering the soup - it will infuse incredible depth and richness.
- Want a creamier texture? Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, creating a more luxurious consistency.
- Make sure to season gradually and taste as you go. The Parmesan cheese is already salty, so adjust your salt carefully.
- This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Pro tip: Store in individual portions for quick, delicious meals anytime!
- For a protein kick, consider adding some crispy pancetta or bacon bits as a garnish just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 10mg
