This rustic Italian soup is a delightful marriage of bitter greens and creamy beans. The escarole softens beautifully, losing its sharp bite while retaining a pleasant texture, complemented by the earthy richness of cannellini beans. Infused with garlic and finished with fresh basil, it offers a balanced, savory profile. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a light, satisfying lunch, this dish is simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests. It’s a comforting bowl of warmth that highlights the natural flavors of its humble ingredients, making it a staple for cozy gatherings or solitary comfort meals.
Escarole & Beans
Description
This rustic Italian soup is a delightful marriage of bitter greens and creamy beans. The escarole softens beautifully, losing its sharp bite while retaining a pleasant texture, complemented by the earthy richness of cannellini beans. Infused with garlic and finished with fresh basil, it offers a balanced, savory profile. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a light, satisfying lunch, this dish is simple enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests. It&# 226;ÂÂs a comforting bowl of warmth that highlights the natural flavors of its humble ingredients, making it a staple for cozy gatherings or solitary comfort meals.Ingredients
Directions
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Wash the head of escarole thoroughly, removing the tough core, and chop it coarsely into bite-sized pieces.
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Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
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Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the hot oil and sauté gently until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden, being careful not to burn.
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Stir in the chopped escarole and toss to coat with the garlic oil, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly wilted.
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Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the escarole is tender but still retains some texture.
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While the escarole simmers, heat 15 oz of cannellini beans (with their liquid) in a small separate pan until warm.
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Add the warmed beans to the escarole soup and stir gently with a wooden spoon to combine.
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Simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Taste and add salt and pepper if needed; if the soup is too thick, add a splash of water or extra broth.
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Remove from heat and garnish with 4 torn fresh basil leaves.
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Serve warm, optionally topped with red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan cheese, and crusty Italian bread.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 147.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.2g12%
- Saturated Fat 2.0g10%
- Cholesterol 53.4mg18%
- Sodium 57.2mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.8g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.4g2%
- Sugars 0.3g
- Protein 16.6g34%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.