Tuscan Soup

Zuppa Toscana, translating to “Tuscan Soup” in English, is a traditional Italian soup that originates from the Tuscany region of Italy. This region, known for its rich culinary history and emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients, has influenced the soup’s simple yet hearty character.

The classic version of Zuppa Toscana is quite different from the popularized versions outside of Italy, especially those known in American restaurants like Olive Garden. In its traditional form, Zuppa Toscana is a vegetable soup that typically includes ingredients such as cannellini beans, kale (or cavolo nero, a type of Tuscan kale), potatoes, celery, carrots, onion, zucchini, and sometimes Italian bacon (pancetta) or sausage. It’s often prepared with a base of olive oil and garlic and sometimes includes tomatoes.

One of the key characteristics of traditional Tuscan cooking is the use of simple, fresh ingredients, cooked in a way that highlights their natural flavors. Zuppa Toscana is a perfect example of this philosophy. It’s a dish that was historically made by farmers using the vegetables and ingredients they had on hand, which is why there are many variations of the soup.

In contrast, the American version of Zuppa Toscana, popularized by restaurants like Olive Garden, is a creamier soup that typically features Italian sausage, heavy cream, chicken broth, potatoes, and kale. This version has gained widespread popularity for its rich flavors and hearty consistency, but it\’s important to note that it\’s a significant departure from the traditional Tuscan recipe.

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Regardless of the version, Zuppa Toscana has a comforting and rustic appeal, embodying the warmth and heartiness of Italian cuisine. It\’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to different tastes and ingredients, making it a beloved soup in both Italy and abroad.