Name: White Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 large carrots, chopped; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste; 3 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 5 ounces baby spinach; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Introduction

This comforting white bean soup is a deliciously simple meal perfect for any day of the week. Packed with wholesome vegetables, tender beans, and a touch of fresh spinach, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. Ready in under an hour, it’s a great go-to recipe for cozy dinners.

The image shows a bowl of white bean soup placed on a white marbled surface. The soup has three main layers: a clear golden broth at the bottom, a middle layer filled with white beans, diced orange carrots, and chopped green celery with leafy spinach scattered throughout, and a top layer sprinkled with white grated cheese and finely chopped green herbs. The bowl is round and white, and nearby there is a silver spoon and a light gray cloth napkin adding a cozy feel. Another white bowl with the same soup is partially visible at the top left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 large carrots, chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups low sodium vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
3 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
5 ounces baby spinach
Grated parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, chopped carrots, celery, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained white beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Stir in the baby spinach and continue simmering until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Remove the pot from heat. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately, topped with grated parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier soup, pulse a portion of the soup in a blender before adding the spinach.
Swap baby spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different leafy green flavor.
Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
Use homemade vegetable broth for extra depth of flavor.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This soup also freezes well; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a white pot filled with a vegetable bean soup, sitting on a white marbled surface with an orange cloth nearby. The soup has three main layers: a clear, light brown broth as the base, a middle layer with orange diced carrots, light green celery pieces, and white beans, and a top layer of dark green spinach leaves scattered throughout. A silver ladle filled with the same soup is held inside the pot, displaying the layered ingredients clearly. In the background, there are two white bowls, one with some parsley and the other with grated cheese. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to soak and cook the dried beans thoroughly before adding them to the soup. This will take more time but can enhance the flavor and texture.

Is this soup suitable for vegans?

The base soup is vegan, but tossing in parmesan cheese adds dairy. Simply omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative to keep it fully plant-based.