Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

#### Instructions:

**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

**Step 2: Add the Tomatoes and Broth**
1. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, lower the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

**Step 3: Add the Cannellini Beans and Seasonings**
1. Add the cannellini beans, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

**Step 4: Add the Parmesan Cheese**
1. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup and add richness and creaminess to the broth. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors develop and the soup thicken slightly.

**Step 5: Serve**
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley, if desired. For an extra touch of flavor, serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.

**Step 6: Enjoy!**
1. Enjoy this comforting, hearty soup with the perfect balance of tomato tang, creamy beans, and savory Parmesan. It’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!

### Tips for the Best Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup

– **Customize the Beans**: While cannellini beans are the star in this recipe, you can substitute them with other beans such as Great Northern beans or butter beans, depending on your preference.

– **Creamier Soup**: For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. This will give the soup a smooth, velvety texture while still maintaining some chunky bits.

– **Herb Variations**: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them in place of dried herbs. Fresh basil or oregano can add an even more vibrant flavor.

– **Spicy Kick**: For a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra level of heat.

– **Make It Vegan**: To make the soup vegan, you can easily omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

– **Freezer-Friendly**: This soup is great for meal prep! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra broth if needed.

– **Add More Veggies**: If you’d like to increase the vegetable content, you can add carrots, celery, or spinach. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the onion and garlic at the start for extra flavor.

### Conclusion

**Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup** is the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich and hearty combination of flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy. With its creamy texture, savory Parmesan cheese, and protein-packed cannellini beans, this soup is both nourishing and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals.

Whether you’re craving a bowl of comforting soup on a chilly day or need a quick and nutritious meal for the whole family, this Parmesan Tomato Cannellini Bean Soup will become a staple in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy this flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion!