Homemade Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup

This hearty and healthy Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup is comfort food at its finest. Packed with nutritious vegetables and robust beans, it's a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day. With a blend of savory herbs and a touch of garlic, it promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner, this soup is both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

- 2 tablespoons of olive oil- 1 large onion, finely chopped- 3 cloves of garlic, minced- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced- 2 celery stalks, diced- 1 teaspoon dried thyme- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary- 6 cups vegetable broth- 2 (15-ounce) cans of white beans (such as cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed- 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and leaves chopped- 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes- Salt and pepper to taste- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and celery, letting them cook until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Season: Sprinkle in the dried thyme and rosemary, stirring to combine with the vegetables.

5. Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained and rinsed white beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Add Kale and Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped kale and the can of diced tomatoes. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the kale is tender.

8. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh parsley just before serving.

9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious Homemade Tuscan White Bean and Kale Soup! It's a perfect meal on its own or paired with a slice of crusty bread.