White Bean Soup

ByMia Harper
Bowl of creamy white bean soup garnished with herbs and croutons
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White Bean Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul with its creamy texture and hearty flavors. This rustic soup is perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a nutritious meal packed with protein and fiber. It’s not only easy to make but also brings together simple ingredients into a comforting bowl of goodness. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 220
  • Protein: 12 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 30 grams
  • Fat: 6 grams
  • Fiber: 8 grams
  • Sugar: 2 grams
  • Sodium: 490 mg

Why Make This White Bean Soup

White Bean Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Packed with fiber and protein from the beans, this dish is a perfect choice for a filling meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy. It’s easy to customize; you can adjust the seasoning to your taste or add your favorite vegetables. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that makes use of pantry staples, so you can whip it up without a trip to the grocery store. Enjoying a bowl of this smooth and savory soup is like giving yourself a warm hug.

How to Make White Bean Soup

Making White Bean Soup is a simple process that requires minimal cooking skills. The steps are straightforward and don’t demand much time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Let’s dive right in!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups spinach (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing

Directions:

  • Step 1: Heating the Oil

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  • Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

    Add the onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

  • Step 3: Incorporating the Garlic

    Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute.

  • Step 4: Mixing the Main Ingredients

    Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf.

  • Step 5: Boiling and Simmering

    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes.

  • Step 6: Adding Spinach (Optional)

    If using, stir in spinach just before serving.

  • Step 7: Final Seasoning

    Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the bay leaf before serving.

How to Serve White Bean Soup

Serve your White Bean Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a touch of indulgence, you could add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese on top.

How to Store White Bean Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.

Expert Tips for Perfect White Bean Soup

  • For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup right in the pot.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like kale or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
  • If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the thyme.
  • If using dried beans instead of canned, soak them overnight and cook them separately according to package instructions before adding them to the soup.

Delicious Variations

  • Italian White Bean Soup: Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Smoky White Bean Soup: Incorporate smoked paprika or diced smoked sausage for a hearty, smoky flavor.
  • Vegetarian Chili: Add corn, bell peppers, and chili powder for a zesty bean chili.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use other types of beans?
    Yes, you can use any beans you prefer, like cannellini, navy beans, or black beans. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

  • Can I make this soup in advance?
    Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully.

  • What can I substitute for vegetable broth?
    You can use chicken broth or homemade broth if you prefer. For a lighter option, water will work too, but the soup may lack depth of flavor.

  • Is this soup gluten-free?
    Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free.

  • How do I make this soup heartier?
    You can add diced potatoes, quinoa, or pasta to make the soup more filling.

Conclusion

White Bean Soup is a nourishing option that shines with its simplicity and flavor. Its comforting taste and versatility make it an ideal dish for any occasion, from a quick lunch to a cozy dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a heartwarming meal that’s sure to bring smiles to the table. So grab your pots and get cooking – it’s time to enjoy a delightful bowl of White Bean Soup!

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White Bean Soup

  • Author: mia-harper
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
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Description

A delightful dish that warms the soul with its creamy texture and hearty flavors, perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups spinach (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
  4. Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  6. If using, stir in spinach just before serving.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the bay leaf before serving.

Notes

For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. You can customize with other vegetables or spices based on your preference.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soups
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 490mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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