Hearty Italian White Bean Basil Soup
Vegan Oil-free Hearty Italian White Bean Basil Soup is full of Italian herbs and fresh basil and is super hearty thanks to protein-rich white beans and hearty rice. This will have your house smelling absolutely amazing too!
Vegan Oil-free Hearty Italian White Bean Basil Soup is full of Italian herbs and fresh basil and is super hearty thanks to protein-rich white beans and hearty rice. This will have your house smelling absolutely amazing too!
- 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped (160 g, you will need 1 cup)
- 4 large garlic cloves minced (you will need a heaping tablespoon)
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
- salt and pepper (i added 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and
- 1/2 cup (72g) uncooked long grain brown rice + 1 cup low-
- 5 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup (240g) tomato sauce
- 2 roma tomatoes roughly chopped (about 2 cups)
- optional: i love a little heat to everything so i added a heaping tsp chili powder, or chili flakes would wo
- 2 15 oz low-sodium canned white beans drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil (don't leave this out it really brings it all together!)
- i used an italian spice blend that you can find a oregano, thyme, rosemary, savory, fennel, sage and marjoram. so
- Carbohydrate 136.706384393064 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.35251156069364 g
- Fiber 40.4187479353089 g
- Protein 16.4693670520231 g
- Saturated Fat 0.578700057803468 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -5 bowl (1494g)
- Sodium 105.630643063584 mg
- Sugar 96.2876364577548 g
- Trans Fat 2.29212549132948 g
- Calories 435 calories
Step-by-step
- In a medium pot, prepare the rice first by bringing 1 cup broth to a boil and then add the rice, salt and stir and immediately turn to the lowest heat setting and cover.
- Simmer for 20 minutes or until all the broth is evaporated.
- Return the lid and let it sit covered 10 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, chop your vegetables.
- Add the onion and garlic to a large pot over medium heat with ONLY 1/2 cup of the broth and sauté for 5-8 minutes until tender, stirring frequently.
- Add the remaining 4 1/2 cups broth, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper and chili powder.
- Stir well and bring to a high boil.
- Once boiling, turn down to medium-high and cover and cook for 10 minutes.
- This really infuses the broth with flavor.
- Now add the tomatoes, cover and cook on medium-low for another 10 minutes.
- Lastly, add the drained beans, fresh basil and cooked rice.
- Stir well and bring back to a boil.
- Once boiling, let it cook on high for 5-10 more mins until heated through.
- Taste and add any additional spices if needed.
- Serve immediately and garnish with more fresh basil, if desired.
My Hearty Italian White Bean Basil Soup Adventure
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the never-ending to-do list. But I refuse to let exhaustion win the battle against good nutrition! That's why I'm constantly on the lookout for recipes that are both quick to prepare and packed with flavor. This Hearty Italian White Bean Basil Soup is my absolute go-to when I need a nourishing and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when expertly combined, can create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a sun-drenched Italian countryside. The rich, savory broth, infused with the fragrant notes of basil, garlic, and Italian herbs, fills the house with a warmth that's both comforting and inviting. It's the kind of smell that instantly de-stresses after a long day, promising a delicious and relaxing meal. This soup is more than just food; it's a culinary hug, a moment of self-care nestled within the chaos of everyday life. And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. I often adjust the spices to match my mood—sometimes a little extra chili for a spicy kick, other times a touch more oregano for a deeper herbal flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability.
The secret to this soup's heartiness lies in the combination of protein-rich white beans and wholesome brown rice. These ingredients not only add a satisfying texture but also provide a sustained energy boost, keeping me feeling full and focused throughout the evening. It's the perfect fuel for a busy mom juggling multiple responsibilities. And let's not forget the vibrant green of the fresh basil, a testament to the bright and fresh flavors that permeate every spoonful. This soup is a symphony of textures and tastes; creamy beans, tender rice, subtly sweet tomatoes, and the sharp, herbaceous bite of basil. It's a balanced masterpiece that satisfies both my palate and my nutritional needs.
Beyond its convenience and deliciousness, this soup holds a special place in my heart because it represents a connection to simpler times. The act of cooking, once a chore, has become a source of joy and mindfulness. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the gentle simmering of the broth—these are the small moments of peace I cherish in my busy life. This soup isn't just a meal; it's a reminder to slow down, to appreciate the simple pleasures, and to nourish myself, both body and soul. It's a recipe for both a delicious dinner and a peaceful evening.
I often find myself sharing this recipe with friends and family. It's always a crowd-pleaser, whether served at a casual weeknight dinner or a more formal gathering. Its versatility allows for easy customization. Add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrients, or swap the brown rice for quinoa for a different texture and nutritional profile. The possibilities are endless! The best part about sharing this soup is witnessing the smiles on people's faces as they take that first blissful spoonful. It’s a recipe that brings people together, one delicious bowl at a time.
This soup is more than just a recipe; it's a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a touch of love. It's a culinary hug in a bowl, a reminder that even in the busiest of lives, we can always find time to nourish ourselves with delicious and wholesome food. So, the next time you find yourself craving a comforting and nutritious meal, give this Hearty Italian White Bean Basil Soup a try. I guarantee it will become a staple in your kitchen, just as it has become in mine.
