Florentine white bean soup is a hearty Italian-inspired meal filled with creamy cannellini beans, tender spinach, carrots, herbs, and savory pancetta. Tomato paste enriches the broth without making it heavy.
The soup comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a practical weeknight dinner or satisfying lunch with crusty bread.
Prep: 10 min · Cook: 20 min · Total: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian · Course: Soup
Florentine White Bean Soup Recipe Card
Ingredients
Instructions
- Warm the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the pancetta and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until lightly browned.
- Increase the heat to medium. Add the onion and carrots and cook for 5 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and oregano and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring well.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the cannellini beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until wilted and tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with crusty bread if desired.
Tips for the Best White Bean Soup
- Rinse canned beans well to remove excess sodium and canning liquid.
- Cook the tomato paste for a full minute to deepen its flavor.
- Add spinach near the end so it stays bright and tender.
- For a thicker broth, mash about half a cup of beans before adding them to the pot.
Substitutions and Variations
Omit the pancetta and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Kale can replace spinach but should simmer several minutes longer. Add diced tomatoes, Parmesan rind, or cooked Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate cooled soup in a covered container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; add fresh spinach after reheating for the best color and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Florentine mean in cooking?
Florentine-style dishes are commonly associated with spinach and are inspired by the cooking traditions of Florence, Italy.
Can I use dried beans?
Yes. Cook the beans until tender first, then use about 3 cups of drained cooked cannellini beans.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes. Leave out the pancetta, sauté the vegetables in olive oil, and use low-sodium vegetable broth.
Prepared with AI assistance. Review ingredient amounts, cooking times, and food-safety guidance before cooking.
Featured image: AI-generated food photography.