Escarole Bean And Ham Soup
A comforting Italian-inspired soup featuring escarole, cannellini beans, and ham, with savory garlic and onion flavors perfect for a hearty, nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute garlic cloves and sliced onion in 2 tablespoons butter until fragrant.
- Add chopped ham and cook briefly in the butter.
- Pile the shredded escarole on top, cover, and steam until limp.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Add drained cannellini beans and heat through.
- Serve hot with Italian bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or pancetta instead of regular ham. If you can't find escarole, Swiss chard or kale can be great substitutes. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead. Make sure to rinse the canned beans well to reduce sodium content. This soup is hearty and can be adjusted to your taste by adding more vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. It pairs beautifully with Italian bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with a slice of garlic bread. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for a family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if it thickens too much. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Escarole Bean And Ham Soup contains roughly 1379 calories, with 44g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (88% of the Daily Value) and iron (54% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 625mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of beans in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with other beans like navy beans or chickpeas. Just keep in mind that different beans may alter the texture and flavor slightly. Ensure they are cooked and drained before adding them to the soup.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the garlic and onion. For a more robust flavor, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a splash of sriracha before serving.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the escarole and beans fresh after thawing to maintain their texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).