Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup is a timeless Italian dish that has warmed hearts and homes for generations. This delicious soup is a perfect representation of Tuscan home cooking, combining simple, authentic ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal. The blend of vegetables, beans, and stale bread creates a comforting and nutritious dish that is not only budget-friendly but also bursting with flavor. Whether you are looking for a new family favorite or a cozy meal for a chilly evening, Ribollita is sure to please.

Ingredients for Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup
Gather these items:
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 stalks celery, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups loosely packed kale or spinach
- 3 cups tomato sauce or purée
- 1 small Parmesan rind
- 19 oz can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups water
- 1 small baguette, torn into small pieces
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
How to Make Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes.
- Step 2: Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 4–6 minutes.
- Step 4: Stir in the tomato sauce, Parmesan rind, white beans, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20–25 minutes.
- Step 5: Add torn bread pieces and simmer for another 10–15 minutes. Add more water if needed, 1/4 cup at a time, to loosen the soup.
- Step 6: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, top with grated Parmesan, and serve warm.
Pro Tips for the Best Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup
Keep these in mind:
- Use stale or toasted bread for better texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables as desired.
Best Ways to Serve Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup
This hearty Tuscan soup is best served warm, paired with crusty bread or a green salad for a balanced meal. For extra flavor, consider topping each bowl with additional grated Parmesan or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. This will enhance the richness and authenticity of the dish.
How to Store and Reheat Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. This makes it an ideal meal prep option, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup
What’s the secret to perfect Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup?
The secret lies in using stale bread, which absorbs the flavors beautifully while adding heartiness to the soup. This traditional ribollita ingredient is key to achieving that authentic texture.
Can I make Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld. Just reheat before serving, making it a great dish for meal planning.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup?
Ensure you don’t skip the Parmesan rind, as it enhances the depth of flavor in the soup, contributing to its hearty profile that sets it apart from other Italian vegetable soups.
Variations of Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup You Can Try
Consider adding seasonal vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. For a vegan ribollita, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. This classic ribollita preparation allows for flexibility while retaining its comforting essence.
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Greek Chicken Bowls. If you’re interested in meal prepping, consider Healthy Honey Mustard Crusted Tilapia for a nutritious option.
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Ribollita Tuscan Bread Soup: 5 Hearty Secrets Unveiled
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ribollita is a hearty Tuscan bread soup made with vegetables and beans.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 3 stalks celery, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups loosely packed kale or spinach
- 3 cups tomato sauce or purée
- 1 small Parmesan rind
- 19 oz can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups water
- 1 small baguette, torn into small pieces
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add kale or spinach and cook until wilted, about 4–6 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, Parmesan rind, white beans, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20–25 minutes.
- Add torn bread pieces and simmer for another 10–15 minutes. Add more water if needed, 1/4 cup at a time, to loosen the soup.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, top with grated Parmesan, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use stale or toasted bread for better texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 5mg