215 oz canscannellini beans or great northern beansdrained and rinsed
1 1/2cupskalepacked and stems removed
salt and black pepperto taste
1/4cupParmesan cheesegrated, plus extra for serving (optional)
1tablespoonfresh lemon juiceoptional
Fresh parsleyfor garnish
Instructions
Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and then add in the diced carrots, onions, and celery. Sauté them all for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Stir in fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, tomato paste, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the broth and add the drained beans. Stir the ingredients to combine, and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Stir in the chopped kale and let the soup cook for 5 more minutes until the kale is tender. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and combine.
If desired, stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Video
Notes
For a creamy texture, blend about 2 cups of the soup in a blender or use an immersion blender to reach your desired consistency.
Chop the vegetables evenly for even cooking.
When prepping the kale, it’s important to remove those tough stems!
Make the soup vegetarian and vegan by using vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese.
To store, let the soup cool completely, then add it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it gently over medium-low on the stove or in 30-second bursts in the microwave until warmed through.
To freeze, let it cool, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove.
This nutrition information is based on the exact products I used in this recipe. Brands and sizes of products could alter exact nutrition and should always be calculated independently.