This comforting white bean soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with soft beans, veggies, and yummy herbs, making it both tasty and healthy.
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of this soup bubbling away. I love making a big pot to enjoy all week—great for lunch or a cozy dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple in this recipe, it adds richness. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try avocado oil or even a bit of butter for a different twist.
White Beans: Cannellini or navy beans work great here. If you can’t find them, Great Northern beans are a fantastic substitute. You can also use dried beans; just soak and cook them ahead of time.
Vegetable Broth: If you want extra flavor, homemade broth is unbeatable! No veggies at home? You can use water, but don’t forget to season well to compensate.
Fresh Basil: Its fresh taste is unbeatable, but if basil isn’t available, consider using parsley or even a touch of dried Italian herbs for a different flavor.
Lemon Juice or Vinegar: A splash of acid really brightens the soup. If lemon isn’t available, apple cider vinegar works too! Just adjust based on your taste preference.
How Do I Make the Soup Creamy Without Cream?
A fantastic way to bring creaminess to your white bean soup is by mashing part of the beans. When you mash some beans, they break down and thicken the soup without adding any dairy.
- After simmering, remove the bay leaf.
- Use a potato masher or the back of a large spoon.
- Gently mash some of the beans right in the pot—not too much, as you want a mix of textures.
This technique creates a more wholesome and satisfying texture, making the soup hearty while still keeping it healthy!
White Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed if canned
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus a few whole leaves for garnish)
- Optional: a splash of lemon juice or red wine vinegar for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This warm and comforting white bean soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes to cook, making it a quick and healthy meal option. You’ll have it ready in less than an hour, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on it so the garlic doesn’t burn; we want that nice garlic smell without the bitterness!
3. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the star of the soup! Add the cooked white beans, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot. Stir everything together to mix well.
4. Simmer Away:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-30 minutes. This is when those wonderful flavors come together beautifully!
5. Mash Some Beans:
After simmering, remove the bay leaf. Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently mash some of the beans right in the pot. This will give the soup a slightly creamy texture while keeping some beans whole for nice bites.
6. Season and Add Fresh Herbs:
Now, season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Stir in the chopped fresh basil, which adds that fragrant herbal note!
7. Add a Touch of Brightness:
If you like, add a splash of lemon juice or red wine vinegar for a punch of brightness that really lifts the soup to the next level. Stir it in and taste—feel free to adjust based on your preferences!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the delicious soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a few whole basil leaves and a grind of black pepper. Serve warm, and enjoy the cozy, hearty goodness!
This white bean soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it perfect for a chilly day or when you just need something warm and comforting. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried?
Absolutely! Canned beans are a great time-saver. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the soup to reduce the sodium content and improve the flavor.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
This soup is already vegan as long as you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Double-check any additional ingredients for dairy, but this recipe is plant-based!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This white bean soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a light salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying meal. Enjoy dipping your bread into the soup!
