Creamy Tomato and White Bean Soup with Smoked Sundried Tomatoes: A Cozy Family Favorite
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of tomato soup, isn’t there? It’s a classic for a reason, evoking memories of childhood, cozy evenings, and the perfect accompaniment to a crispy grilled cheese sandwich. For my daughter, creamy tomato soup is a top contender among her favorite meals to order out. And ever since I introduced her to the sublime art of dipping a perfectly grilled cheese or a warm panini into a steaming bowl, it’s become a frequent request in our household. While I don’t make it as often as she’d like, a couple of weeks ago, when Florida experienced an unexpected two-day winter chill, this particular Tomato and White Bean Soup recipe proved to be exactly what we needed to warm up from the inside out. It was a true hit, delivering both comfort and incredible flavor that truly hit the spot.
This isn’t just any tomato soup; it’s an elevated version that incorporates hearty white beans for a natural creaminess and smoked sundried tomatoes for an unparalleled depth of flavor. The addition of white beans transforms it into a more substantial, satisfying meal, rich in fiber and protein, making it ideal for a wholesome family dinner. Forget heavy cream; the pureed cannellini beans achieve that luxurious texture while keeping the soup light yet incredibly filling. This recipe is designed to be both delicious and surprisingly easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal. Its robust flavor profile and comforting texture make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a delightful and nutritious meal solution.
Speaking of my daughter and her cherished favorites, my sweet girl recently celebrated her 8th birthday. It feels like just yesterday she was a tiny one-year-old, barely walking, when I first started this blog. Seven years later, she has blossomed into my little foodie-in-training, always curious about ingredients and enthusiastic about helping in the kitchen. Her passion for food is inspiring, and I love watching her explore new flavors and textures. She possesses the biggest heart, an unwavering love for her brothers, and a spirit full of spunk. Her witty remarks and playful antics often have us laughing; we sometimes affectionately call her our “mini Kristen Wiig” because of her hilarious personality and knack for comedic timing. These special family moments, often centered around shared meals, are the heartbeat of our home.
For her special birthday dinner, she had a very specific request: the homemade manicotti (with a slight modification – sans butternut squash) that we had made together a few months prior, followed by a classic key lime pie. It warms my heart to see her develop such a defined palate and appreciation for homemade meals, choosing something we cooked together over typical birthday fare. That’s definitely my girl – discerning, delicious, and always a joy to celebrate!
Our family life is certainly never dull. Between delicious home-cooked meals and birthday celebrations, there’s always an adventure unfolding, especially with the little ones around. This particular little guy, my youngest, has a knack for getting into everything lately. Nothing is safe from his curious hands and boundless energy – he’s a wonderful, lovable mess, keeping us on our toes and adding endless laughter to our days. It’s precisely during these busy, joyous, and sometimes chaotic family moments that a simple, satisfying, and nourishing meal like this Tomato and White Bean Soup becomes an absolute lifesaver. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together at the table, providing warmth and comfort after a long day.
Now, let’s dive back into the star of the show: this incredible Tomato and White Bean Soup. What truly sets this recipe apart are two distinctive ingredients that elevate it beyond a standard tomato soup: creamy white beans and intensely flavorful smoked sundried tomatoes. These additions are carefully integrated to create a symphony of textures and tastes that will surprise and delight your taste buds, transforming a classic into a memorable culinary experience.
The Magic of White Beans for Natural Creaminess
The white beans, specifically cannellini beans, are introduced early in the cooking process. After simmering with the whole tomatoes and stock, they are pureed directly in the pot using an immersion blender. This clever step achieves a beautiful, velvety creaminess without the need for any dairy. Not only does it contribute to a luxurious mouthfeel, but it also adds a significant boost of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, transforming the soup from a light starter into a wholesome, satisfying main course. It’s a fantastic way to add richness and nutritional value naturally, making it an excellent option for those seeking a healthier yet equally indulgent alternative to cream-based soups. The beans also provide a subtle earthy undertone that complements the vibrant tomato flavor.
The Distinctive Flavor of Smoked Sundried Tomatoes
The second game-changer in this recipe is the use of smoked sundried tomatoes. Unlike regular sundried tomatoes, the smoked variety brings an extra layer of savory, smoky depth that complements the sweetness of the fresh tomatoes beautifully. These are added towards the very end of the cooking process, giving them just enough time to plump up slightly in the warm liquid and release their concentrated, umami-rich flavor without becoming overly soft. They add a delightful chewiness and a complex taste that makes every spoonful exciting, lending an unexpected gourmet touch. If you can’t find smoked sundried tomatoes, regular oil-packed sundried tomatoes will still be delicious, but I highly recommend seeking out the smoked version for that extra special, unique twist that truly sets this recipe apart.
A Pantry-Friendly, Make-Ahead Meal Solution
One of the best aspects of this hearty tomato and white bean soup is its convenience and versatility. You’ll likely find most, if not all, of the ingredients already stocked in your pantry, making it an ideal last-minute meal idea. Canned whole peeled plum tomatoes, cannellini beans, onions, and basic dried herbs like thyme and basil form the foundation of this robust soup. The only item you might need to grab from the store is the smoked sundried tomatoes, but trust me, they are worth the trip for the flavor they impart! This soup is also an excellent candidate for meal prep because its flavors deepen and meld beautifully overnight. It tastes even better the next day, making it perfect to prepare ahead for busy weeknights or for quick lunches. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop, and you have a nutritious and delicious meal ready to go, whether served alongside a fresh sandwich or a crusty piece of whole-grain bread for dipping.
Print Recipe
Tomato and White Bean Soup with Smoked Sundried Tomatoes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Ingredients:
- 3 onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 28 oz cans whole peeled plum tomatoes
- 1 32 oz carton low sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock to keep it vegetarian)
- 1 15 oz can Bush’s Cannellini Beans
- 1/3 cup julienned smoked sundried tomatoes
Directions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onions, olive oil, and butter to a large soup pot over medium heat. Allow the onions to cook gently for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become beautifully soft, translucent, and fragrant. This crucial step is key for building a rich and flavorful base for your soup. Once softened, stir in the dried thyme and dried basil, and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Simmer for Flavor: Pour in the two 28 oz cans of whole peeled plum tomatoes along with their juices. Use a spoon to gently break down the tomatoes as they cook for about 5 minutes, allowing them to soften further and release their inherent sweetness. Next, add the 32 oz carton of low-sodium chicken stock (or vegetable stock if you prefer a vegetarian option) and the entire 15 oz can of cannellini beans, including their liquid, into the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it continue to simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing all the robust flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.
- Achieve Creamy Perfection: Carefully remove the pot from the heat if preferred for safety, or proceed cautiously with an immersion blender while the pot is on a stable surface. Using a hand immersion blender, thoroughly puree the soup directly in the pot until it reaches your desired smooth and creamy consistency. Ensure to blend until no large chunks remain, creating that velvety texture that makes this soup so inviting.
- Finish with Smoked Sundried Tomatoes: Stir in the 1/3 cup of julienned smoked sundried tomatoes. Return the pot to low heat and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This brief simmer allows the sundried tomatoes to plump up slightly and infuse their rich, smoky flavor throughout the soup, adding a delightful complexity. Finally, taste the soup for seasoning and adjust with additional salt and pepper if necessary, until the flavors are perfectly balanced. Serve hot and enjoy this incredibly comforting and flavorful meal!
Pro Tip for Creamy Soups: I cannot recommend having an immersion blender in your kitchen gadget arsenal enough! It makes pureeing hot soups incredibly easy, efficient, and mess-free. However, if you don’t have one, you can still achieve a smooth soup using a traditional blender. Just be very careful when transferring hot liquids: always fill the blender only halfway, vent the lid, and cover with a kitchen towel to prevent pressure buildup and potential splatters. Here’s a helpful post on how to safely puree hot soup in a blender without an explosion.
Serving Suggestions: This versatile soup pairs wonderfully with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, a savory panini, or simply a thick slice of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping. For a lighter, more complete meal, consider adding a fresh green side salad with a simple vinaigrette.
Storage & Reheating: Leftovers of this delicious soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully for longer storage, up to 3 months. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
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