The Best White Bean Soup
If you ever thought that beans are boring, this creamy flavor-packed white bean soup will blow your mind! The Best White Bean Soup is a simple, vegan, and budget-friendly recipe that tastes and smells amazing. Added bonus? It will be on the table in just 25 minutes! Perfect for cozy dinners or quick weeknight meals, this soup is not only delicious but also a nutritious option that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this hearty soup in no time.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a rich and satisfying taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. This soup is forgiving and adaptable!
- Vegan and Healthy: Packed with nutrients, this soup is perfect for everyone, including those following a plant-based diet.
- Budget-Friendly: Using canned beans and simple ingredients makes this recipe wallet-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing The Best White Bean Soup requires just a few essential tools, making it easy to get started. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all the flavors to blend together beautifully.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife will make chopping vegetables quick and effortless, ensuring even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
Ingredients
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
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:
1. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery.
2. Cook while stirring often until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Beans and Seasonings
Add the garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary (whole sprig or chopped), and paprika (if using).
1. Cook while stirring frequently for about one minute.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Add the white wine:
1. Stir well.
2. Let it simmer until evaporated, which should take about one minute.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Spinach
Now add the frozen spinach, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper:
1. Raise the heat to bring everything to a boil.
2. Cover the pot, reduce heat, and let it cook gently for approximately 15 minutes.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
When the potatoes are soft:
1. Remove from heat.
2. Discard the sprig of rosemary.
3. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Divide into bowls:
1. Drizzle with olive oil or extra virgin olive oil.
2. Top with freshly ground black pepper if desired.
3. Serve alongside crusty whole-grain bread or freshly grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Enjoy your delicious bowl of The Best White Bean Soup!
How to Serve The Best White Bean Soup
Serving The Best White Bean Soup can elevate your dining experience. With a few creative touches, you can impress your guests or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home.
With Crusty Bread
- A slice of fresh, crusty bread pairs beautifully with the creamy soup, perfect for dipping and absorbing flavors.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for added freshness and color. This enhances both the flavor and presentation.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil adds richness. It also complements the soup’s texture and taste.
Accompanied by Salad
- A light, crisp salad balances the hearty soup. Consider a simple mixed green salad with a vinaigrette.
Served with Grated Cheese
- For non-vegans, freshly grated parmesan cheese enhances the flavor profile and adds a savory touch.
How to Perfect The Best White Bean Soup
To make sure your Best White Bean Soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor significantly compared to canned or frozen options.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving. You might need additional salt or spices based on your preferences.
- Create Creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving.
- Add Acid: A splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end brightens up the flavors.
- Customize Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for extra nutrition and texture.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better when made a day in advance—allowing flavors to meld together.
Best Side Dishes for The Best White Bean Soup
Pairing side dishes with The Best White Bean Soup can create a delightful meal that satisfies all palates. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is a classic choice that complements the soup perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition; try carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies provides a healthy contrast to the creamy soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with grains and vegetables can make a hearty side dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the creamy textures of the soup.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs makes for a simple yet delicious accompaniment.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses for guests who might want to enjoy them alongside their soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making The Best White Bean Soup can be easy, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure it turns out perfect every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Using dry beans – Canned beans are convenient and save time. Avoid using dry beans unless you have pre-cooked them properly.
- Skipping the seasoning – Seasoning is key to flavor. Don’t skip adding salt and pepper; taste as you go to adjust.
- Overcooking the vegetables – Soft veggies are great, but mushy ones aren’t. Cook just until tender for the best texture.
- Ignoring the broth quality – A good vegetable broth makes a big difference. Use low-sodium options to control the saltiness.
- Not blending enough – For a creamy soup, make sure you blend thoroughly. If you prefer chunks, leave some beans whole.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- The Best White Bean Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Use an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Freezing The Best White Bean Soup
- This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Store in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating The Best White Bean Soup
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between.
- Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making The Best White Bean Soup:
What beans are best for white bean soup?
Cannellini beans or any white beans work perfectly. They provide creaminess and flavor that enhance the soup’s overall taste.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition.
How do I make this soup spicier?
To spice things up, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. Adjust according to your heat preference!
Is The Best White Bean Soup vegan?
Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly while being rich in flavors.
How can I thicken the soup further?
If you desire a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in, or add more potatoes.
Final Thoughts
In summary, The Best White Bean Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to make. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this comforting dish that will warm your heart and soul!
The Best White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and wholesome meal, The Best White Bean Soup is the perfect choice. This creamy, flavor-packed soup comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. With a delightful blend of cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this vegan dish is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe that allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences while ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it. Serve it warm with crusty bread or top it with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (28oz) cannellini beans
- 1 medium onion
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 large carrot
- 1–2 garlic cloves
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 cup frozen spinach (optional)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1/3 cup white wine
- Fresh rosemary (or dried)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, and rosemary; cook for another minute.
- Pour in white wine and let simmer until evaporated (about 1 minute).
- Add spinach, broth, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then cover and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Once potatoes are tender, remove from heat and discard rosemary sprig. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil or alongside crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
