THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming meal that comes together in no time, then you’ve stumbled upon THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP! This creamy and flavorful soup is not only a delight for your taste buds but also a comforting hug on chilly days. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this easy recipe fits right in. It’s vegan, wholesome, and just perfect for sharing—or enjoying all on your own!

What makes this soup truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something delicious and satisfying. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks? Absolutely irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 5 minutes and cook time of 20 minutes, you can have this soul-warming soup ready in under half an hour!
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein from the beans and nutrients from the veggies, this soup is both healthy and hearty.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious lunches ready for the week ahead.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love its creamy texture and mild flavors, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These are probably already in your pantry or fridge, making this recipe even more convenient!

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 grape juice
– 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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you like or what you have at home.

• Add More Greens: Toss in some kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for extra nutrition.
• Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it a kick.
• Creamy Twist: Blend half of the soup after cooking for a creamier texture while leaving some chunks for heartiness.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage to change the flavor profile.

How to Make THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sautéing these vegetables helps build a flavor base that will enhance every spoonful of your soup. Stir often until the onion softens and turns translucent—about 5 minutes will do.

Step 2: Add Flavor Boosters

Now it’s time to bring in some flavor! Add in the garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary (whole sprig or chopped), and paprika if you’re using it. Stir them around for about a minute. This step helps release all those wonderful aromas into the air!

Step 3: Deglaze with Grape Juice

Next up is adding that splash of white grape juice. It adds just enough sweetness to balance out the savory notes. Stir well and let it simmer until most of the liquid has evaporated—this should take about a minute.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Now we’re really getting somewhere! Toss in the frozen spinach along with vegetable broth and seasonings—salt and pepper. Raise that heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, cover your pot, reduce the heat again, and let it gently bubble away for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

When those potatoes are soft and everything looks thick and creamy—it’s almost time to eat! Remove from heat and take out that sprig of rosemary (if you used one). Taste your soup now; you might want to add more salt or pepper depending on your broth’s seasoning.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Spoon out generous portions into bowls, drizzle with olive oil or extra virgin olive oil for richness, and add freshly ground black pepper if desired. This soup pairs perfectly with crusty whole grain bread. And if you want an extra treat—grate some parmesan cheese on top!

Enjoy every last drop of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Making a delicious white bean soup is all about the little details that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some essential tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables will impart a vibrant flavor to your soup, making it more aromatic and delicious compared to using older or frozen produce.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Start with a pinch of salt and add more as needed. This way, you can tailor the seasoning to your taste without overpowering the dish.
• Blend for creaminess: If you prefer an ultra-creamy texture, consider blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. This creates a rich consistency while still leaving some whole beans for added texture.
• Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like thyme or sage. They complement the flavors of the white beans beautifully and can give your soup a unique twist.
• Make it ahead of time: Soup often tastes better the next day! Make a larger batch and let it chill in the fridge overnight. The flavors will meld together wonderfully, making for an even tastier meal.

How to Serve THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Serving your white bean soup is just as important as making it. A few thoughtful touches can transform this comforting dish into an inviting meal that impresses family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to each bowl.
• Chili flakes: A sprinkle of chili flakes can bring a delightful heat that balances the creamy texture of the soup.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty whole grain bread: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding both texture and heartiness to your meal.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup without overwhelming it.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers make for a colorful side that enhances this wholesome meal.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a zesty dressing offers a nutritious contrast to the creamy soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll elevate your dining experience while enjoying THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy, flavorful white bean soup is not only a delight to enjoy fresh but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it for those busy weeknights, ensuring you have a warm bowl of comfort ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It should keep well for up to 4 days.
• To maintain freshness, let the soup cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; be sure to label and date your containers!
• For best results, leave a little space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• You can add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP!

Can I make THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP without potatoes?

Absolutely! While potatoes add creaminess, you can substitute them with cauliflower or simply omit them for a lighter version.

What beans can I use for THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP?

Cannellini beans or any white beans like navy or great northern beans work perfectly in this recipe. They provide that creamy texture we’re after!

How do I enhance the flavor of THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP?

You can add additional herbs like thyme or bay leaves, or spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes. Experimenting with flavors is part of the fun!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this creamy white bean soup as delightful as I do! It’s not just simple and budget-friendly; it’s also filled with hearty goodness perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and variations. Happy cooking and savor every comforting spoonful!