If you’ve ever wondered how to make escarole soup, you’re in for a treat. This hearty, flavorful soup is a wonderful way to enjoy escarole—a leafy green with a slightly bitter, spicy taste that adds depth to any dish. Escarole soup is simple to prepare, nutritious, and versatile, perfect for cozy dinners or a light lunch. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting soup step-by-step, with tips on variations and serving ideas.
What Is Escarole Soup?
Escarole soup is a traditional Italian-inspired dish featuring escarole greens cooked in a savory broth, often with beans, garlic, onions, and sometimes sausage or pasta. The soup balances the slight bitterness of escarole with rich flavors from broth, garlic, and cheese, making it a satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list of ingredients for a classic escarole soup that serves about 4 people:
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 yellow onion, chopped
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage (optional for a meaty version)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– Parmesan rind or a chunk of pecorino romano cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
– 1 large bunch escarole, trimmed, chopped, and washed
– Juice of half a lemon
– 8 ounces pasta (optional, cooked separately)
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and starting to brown, about 5-7 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Brown the Sausage (Optional)
Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned all over. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Broth, Beans, and Cheese Rind
Pour in the broth and add the rinsed cannellini beans. Toss in the parmesan rind, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the Escarole
Add the chopped escarole to the pot. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the greens wilt into the soup, stirring occasionally. This usually takes about 10 minutes.
5. Finish with Lemon and Pasta
Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor. Add the cooked pasta if using, and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as desired.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for Making the Best Escarole Soup
– One-Pot Meal Option: You can cook the pasta directly in the soup, but you’ll need extra broth to accommodate it. Cooking pasta separately is recommended if you want leftovers, so the pasta doesn’t soak up all the broth and get mushy.
– Vegetarian Version: Simply skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. The beans add protein and heartiness, making it a filling meatless meal.
– Add Barley for Extra Texture: Some recipes include barley for a chewy, nutty addition that complements the escarole beautifully.
– Balance the Bitterness: Escarole has a natural bitterness that’s balanced by lemon juice and cheese. Don’t skip these finishing touches, as they brighten the soup and round out the flavors.
– Use Fresh Herbs: Adding chopped parsley or other fresh herbs at the end can add freshness and color.
Variations to Try
– Sicilian Escarole Soup: Incorporate potatoes and other vegetables for a heartier, rustic version.
– Creamy Escarole Soup: Blend part or all of the soup for a silky texture, adding cream or milk if desired.
– Escarole and Bean Soup: Focus on beans and greens for a protein-packed vegetarian option, seasoned with garlic and herbs.
– Add Eggs: Some recipes call for beaten eggs stirred in slowly to create silky ribbons in the soup.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
Escarole soup is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s quick to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and offers a comforting, nourishing meal. Whether you want a light vegetarian soup or a rich, meaty stew, escarole soup adapts beautifully. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of escarole, which aids digestion and detoxification.
Making escarole soup is easier than you think, and once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular rotation. Enjoy the warmth, flavor, and goodness in every bowl!
Escarole soup is a delicious, nutritious way to enjoy greens, perfect for any season and easy to customize. Give it a try and savor the comforting taste of homemade goodness.