Hearty White Bean Soup
Why make this recipe
Hearty White Bean Soup is a comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you need something warm and filling. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of white beans, vegetables, and herbs creates a rich flavor that will satisfy your hunger. It is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish.
How to make Hearty White Bean Soup
Making Hearty White Bean Soup is straightforward and doesn’t require fancy cooking skills. You start by sautéing vegetables to build a base of flavor, then add beans and broth to create a hearty soup that simmers to perfection. This soup is a great way to incorporate more vegetables and plant-based protein into your diet.
Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 handful of fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the white beans, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- If using, add the fresh spinach or kale and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
How to serve Hearty White Bean Soup
Hearty White Bean Soup can be served alone or with a piece of crusty bread. You can also top it with lemon wedges for a splash of brightness. This soup makes a great lunch or dinner and is perfect for sharing with family and friends.
How to store Hearty White Bean Soup
If you have leftovers, you can store the Hearty White Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to make Hearty White Bean Soup
- To add more flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and then mix it back in.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can easily customize this soup by adding different herbs or spices. For example, try adding a bay leaf while it simmers or some red pepper flakes for a kick. You can also switch the beans for chickpeas or lentils.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans! Just soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the soup.
Is this soup vegan?
Yes, if you use vegetable broth, this soup is completely vegan.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken or sausage can be added for extra protein and flavor. Just sauté them with the vegetables at the beginning.
Hearty White Bean Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the white beans, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- If using, add the fresh spinach or kale and cook for another 5 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
