Looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious? Dive into the world of Italian comfort food with our delightful White Bean and Escarole Soup! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a bowl of this flavorful soup that’s packed with wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with nutrition!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained
- 1 head escarole, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing the escarole thoroughly, chopping it into bite-sized pieces, and finely mincing the garlic and onion.
- Heat a large soup pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan.
- Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release their aromatic flavors.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the drained white beans, chopped escarole, and dried thyme to the simmering broth.
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the escarole to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to further develop.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and optionally garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or some grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, wash and chop the escarole and mince the garlic and onion in advance. This will make the cooking process quicker and smoother.
- Use Quality Broth: The flavor of your soup largely depends on the broth you choose. Opt for a high-quality vegetable broth or homemade broth for the best taste.
- Sautéing Matters: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and the garlic to release its aroma, as this step builds the foundation of flavor for your soup.
- Customize Your Beans: While white beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with other varieties like cannellini or navy beans for a different twist.
- Season to Taste: After simmering, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning. A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can elevate the dish to new heights!
- Garnish for Flair: Enhance the presentation and flavor by drizzling a little extra virgin olive oil or sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Make It a Meal: Pair your soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
