Zuppa di Mele e Fagioli (Apple and Bean Soup)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (400g) 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed (400g)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (950ml) 4 cups vegetable broth (950ml)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 34g, 12g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced apples and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
4. 4.
   Stir in the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary.
5. 5.
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Using an immersion blender or a countertop blender, blend the soup until smooth.
8. 8.
   Return the soup to the pot and heat it gently before serving.
9. 9.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. 10.
    Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for a balanced flavor in the soup.
• Cannellini beans — If using canned beans, make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream before blending.
• Garnish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or croutons for added crunch.

Serving advice

Serve the Zuppa di Mele e Fagioli as a comforting starter or a light main course. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Serve the soup in individual bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The vibrant colors of the apples and beans will make the dish visually appealing.