Description

This hearty couscous vegetable soup is cozy, comforting, and packed with veggies, beans, and tender couscous. It’s a filling, wholesome meal that comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknights!

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 (15-oz) cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained, divided
1 cup water
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled and finely chopped
2 celery ribs, finely chopped
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon tomato paste
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
8 oz (about 1 1/2 cups) Israeli couscous
1 cup finely chopped spinach or kale (remove the stems, if using kale)
Optional: 1 oz Parmesan cheese, grated (about 1/2 cup); plus extra for serving

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Instructions

In a food processor or blender, combine one can of cannellini beans with one cup water. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds. Set aside.
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, the remaining can of whole beans, and the pureed bean mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld.
Increase the heat to high and bring the soup back to a boil. Stir in the couscous, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, about 10-12 minutes until the couscous is al dente.
Remove from heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped spinach or kale until just wilted.

Notes

The couscous will continue to soak up liquid, so the soup will thicken as it sits. If you plan to have leftovers, you can cook the couscous separately, then add it to the soup when ready to serve.