THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Why make this recipe

The Best White Bean Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering. The combination of creamy beans and hearty vegetables makes it a satisfying meal, while the simple ingredients make it accessible for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting in the kitchen, this recipe will warm your heart and fill your belly.

How to make THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (28oz – 800 grams) cannellini beans or white beans, drained
• 1 medium-size onion, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1-2 garlic cloves, diced or pressed
• 1 cup (7 oz – 200 grams) frozen spinach (optional)
• 2 medium-size potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 Tbsp olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) white wine
• 1 sprig rosemary (or 1 Tbsp of chopped fresh leaves/1/2 tsp of dried)
• 2 cups (500 ml) vegetable broth or hot water
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1/2 tsp fine salt, plus more to taste
• 1/8 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste

Directions:

1. Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened and is turning translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary (whole sprig, chopped, or dried, whatever is easier for you), and paprika (if you use it). Cook, stirring frequently, for about 1 minute.
3. Add the wine, stir well, and let it simmer until it has evaporated, cooking for another minute.
4. Then add the frozen spinach, the vegetable broth, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce heat, and cook gently for 15 minutes.
5. When the potatoes are soft and the soup is thick and creamy, remove the pot from heat. Remove the sprig of rosemary. Taste and season with salt and pepper. (I usually add a pinch of salt at the beginning and 1/2 tsp later. You might need more salt, depending on your vegetable broth and your personal preferences.)
6. Divide into bowls, drizzle with olive oil or extra virgin olive oil, and top with more freshly ground black pepper if you like. Serve with crusty whole grain bread and, if you don’t keep it vegan, add freshly grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Enjoy!

How to serve THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Serve the soup hot in bowls. Drizzle with a little olive oil for an extra touch. Enjoy it alongside some crusty whole grain bread for a complete meal. If you like, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

How to store THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

To store leftover soup, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Tips to make THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

• Adjust the thickness of the soup by blending part of it to create a creamier texture, if desired.
• Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• If you want a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot.

Variation

You can change the beans if you prefer. Navy beans or great northern beans can also work well. For a different flavor, try adding herbs like thyme or basil in place of rosemary.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, The Best White Bean Soup can be made ahead. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors develop.

2. Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Just soak and cook them before adding to the recipe.

3. Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Enjoy making The Best White Bean Soup! It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

This hearty white bean soup is incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It's a perfect meal for a cozy night in and comes together with minimal effort.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings 6 servings

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Ladle

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cans canned cannellini beans rinsed and drained
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz, undrained
• 2 carrots chopped
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 1 onion chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 0.5 tsp dried rosemary
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 3 cups fresh spinach packed
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion, then cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Cooking the Soup

• Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes (undrained).
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add the rinsed and drained cannellini beans to the pot and continue to simmer for 10 minutes.
• Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Serving

• Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a bay leaf while simmering and remove it before serving. This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.