Are you ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience? This White Bean, Chard and Pancetta Soup isn't just another recipe—it's a heartwarming Italian-inspired journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the rustic kitchens of Tuscany. Packed with rich, savory flavors and nutrient-dense ingredients, this soup promises to be your new go-to comfort meal that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
- 4 oz pancetta, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Drain and rinse the can of white beans, chop the Swiss chard, dice the pancetta, and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves as well.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until it becomes crispy and golden brown, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once the pancetta is cooked, add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté the onion for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Next, add the chopped Swiss chard to the pot. Stir it in and cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to wilt down slightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the drained white beans to the pot, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for about 20 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together.
- After 20 minutes, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the beans.
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your delicious White Bean, Chard, and Pancetta Soup!
Tips
- Choose high-quality pancetta for the best flavor—look for artisanal or freshly cut options from your local deli.
- Don't rush the pancetta crisping process; patience ensures maximum flavor development.
- When adding Swiss chard, include both leaves and stems for added texture and nutrition.
- For a creamier soup, reserve and mash about 1/2 cup of beans before adding them back to the pot.
- Fresh Parmesan is key—grate it directly over the soup for maximum flavor impact.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
