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This Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup is the perfect bowl of comfort when you want something hearty yet light. Its rich tomato base combined with creamy beans and a cheesy finish feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
I first made this soup on a busy weeknight and was amazed by how quickly it came together while keeping everyone satisfied. It quickly became a go-to when I needed something nourishing and simple.
Ingredients You Need
- Two tablespoons olive oil: for a flavorful sauté base, choose extra virgin for the best taste
- One medium onion: finely chopped to add sweetness and body to the soup
- Three cloves garlic: minced, essential for aromatic depth, make sure they are fresh
- Two cans of diced tomatoes with juice: opt for high-quality or fire-roasted for an extra smoky flavor
- Three cups vegetable broth: that gives the soup its liquid foundation, homemade broth works wonderfully here
- Two cans of cannellini beans: drained and rinsed for creamy texture and protein
- One teaspoon dried thyme and one teaspoon Italian seasoning: to bring earthy and herby notes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste for seasoning balance
- One-quarter cup grated Parmesan cheese: for a savory, tangy finish, use fresh cheese rather than pre-grated for melting ease
- One-quarter cup fresh basil leaves: chopped, to brighten the soup at the end
- Optional one teaspoon red pepper flakes: if you like to add a gentle kick
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Build The Flavor Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook gently for about five minutes until translucent and soft. This step unlocks sweetness and develops a rich base.
- Add Garlic Aroma:
- Stir in minced garlic and cook one more minute until fragrant but not browned. This brief sauté releases garlic’s full flavor potential without bitterness.
- Incorporate Tomatoes:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and stir to blend with the onion garlic mixture. The tomatoes create a vibrant and tangy foundation for the soup.
- Simmer With Broth:
- Add vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. This step helps meld the flavors while softening the tomatoes further.
- Add Beans and Herbs:
- Stir in cannellini beans, dried thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the soup simmer for 15 to 20 minutes so the beans absorb herb flavors and everything marries nicely.
- Finish With Cheese and Basil:
- Remove from heat and quickly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted for a creamy richness. Just before serving, fold in chopped fresh basil leaves for a fresh, bright finish.
- Optional Spice Touch:
- If you enjoy heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on individual servings to your taste.
This soup became a regular when my family sought comforting yet healthy meals after busy days. It was always a hit during cozy weekends when we gathered around the table to share stories and laughs. Knowing it was packed with wholesome ingredients gave me peace of mind while everyone savored each bowl.
Smart Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. To reheat, warm gently on the stove to preserve the delicate cheese and fresh basil flavors& avoid boiling. The soup also freezes well& leave out the fresh basil when freezing and add it freshly chopped once thawed before serving.
Ingredient Variations
Swap cannellini beans for chickpeas or great northern beans for a slightly different texture and flavor. Add chopped carrots or celery at the onion stage for more vegetable complexity and sweetness. For a heartier option, stir in cooked pasta or rice just before serving to turn it into a fuller meal.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Serve this soup with a crusty whole-grain bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth. A crisp, green salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the warm, cheesy notes of the soup beautifully. Pair with a light white wine such as Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon for a refreshing contrast.
This soup is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something both comforting and elegant. Every spoonful tells a story of warmth and care in the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What does cannellini beans add to this soup?
Cannellini beans provide a creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor that enrich the soup’s body while offering protein and fiber.
- → Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used but may require longer cooking to break down and release their juices for a similar depth of flavor.
- → How is Parmesan incorporated for best flavor?
Stir Parmesan into the hot soup off heat, allowing it to melt smoothly and add rich, savory notes without curdling.
- → What herbs work best in this dish?
Dried thyme and Italian seasoning provide classic Mediterranean flavors, while fresh basil added at the end brightens and freshens the soup.
- → Is the soup spicy, and how to adjust heat?
The soup is mild by default; adding red pepper flakes before serving introduces a gentle kick adjustable to personal taste.
- → Can the soup be blended for a different texture?
Yes, partially blending with an immersion blender creates a creamier consistency while keeping some beans whole for texture.