The Best White Bean Soup

If you ever thought that beans are boring, this creamy flavor-packed white bean soup will blow your mind! This is a simple, vegan and budget-friendly recipe that tastes and smells amazing. Added bonus? It will be on the table in 25 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can serve a delicious homemade meal.
• Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of white beans, fresh veggies, and spices creates a rich taste that delights the palate.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the soup with different vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand.
• Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both filling and nutritious.
• Budget-Friendly: Using canned beans and fresh produce keeps costs low while delivering high flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make The Best White Bean Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for making soups as it holds all ingredients comfortably while allowing for even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring quick and easy prep work.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting through vegetables quicker and safer.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate amounts of liquids and dry ingredients for consistent results.

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, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened and is turning translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Add the garlic, beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary (whole sprig or chopped), and paprika (if using). Cook while stirring frequently for about one minute.

Step 3: Incorporate Wine

Pour in the white wine, stir well, and let it simmer until it has evaporated—this should take about one minute.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the frozen spinach along with vegetable broth. Season with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Raise the heat to bring everything to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce heat, and let it cook gently for about 15 minutes.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the potatoes are soft and the soup is thick and creamy, remove from heat. Take out the sprig of rosemary. Taste your soup; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Divide into bowls. Drizzle with olive oil or extra virgin olive oil along with freshly ground black pepper if desired. Enjoy with crusty whole grain bread or freshly grated parmesan cheese if not keeping it vegan!

How to Serve The Best White Bean Soup

Serving The Best White Bean Soup can elevate your dining experience, making it a delightful meal for family and friends. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your soup.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the soup with warm, crusty whole grain bread for dipping. This adds a satisfying texture and complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Parmesan

• For non-vegan eaters, a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese adds rich flavor and enhances the overall dish.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top provide a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal of your soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving enriches the taste and adds a finishing touch that will impress your guests.

Served with a Salad

• A light side salad can balance out the richness of the soup. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a bright contrast.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also makes for an easy way to enjoy every last drop of your delicious soup.

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How to Perfect The Best White Bean Soup

To achieve the ultimate The Best White Bean Soup, consider these helpful tips that will take your recipe to the next level.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Choose seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust seasoning wisely – Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference and the broth used.
• Blend for creaminess – If you prefer an extra creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before serving.
• Experiment with spices – Feel free to add spices like cumin or thyme for added depth and flavor that complements white beans beautifully.
• Store properly – Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage.
• Serve hot – Enjoy this delicious soup hot; reheat gently on low heat if needed, ensuring it doesn’t boil to maintain its creamy texture.

Best Side Dishes for The Best White Bean Soup

Pairing side dishes with The Best White Bean Soup can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, adding both flavor and texture.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad provides crunchy romaine lettuce and tangy dressing that pairs well with bean soups.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition, complementing the flavors of your white bean soup.
4. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad packed with veggies offers protein and healthy grains while keeping the meal balanced.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for an exciting hearty side that complements bean dishes well.
6. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the creaminess of the soup beautifully.
7. Pita Chips – Crispy pita chips provide an alternative dipping option that is both crunchy and satisfying alongside your soup.
8. Cheese Platter – A variety of cheeses can be served as a side dish, offering different textures and flavors that pair nicely with white bean soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best White Bean Soup can be easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes you should avoid:

• Ignoring the beans’ texture: A common mistake is not properly draining and rinsing the beans. This can lead to a gritty texture. Always drain and rinse your beans for a smoother soup.
• Overcooking vegetables: If you cook the onion, carrot, and celery too long, they can become mushy. Sauté them just until softened for the best results.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting the seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always taste before serving and add salt or pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: The flavor of your soup relies heavily on the broth. Opt for high-quality vegetable broth or homemade for a richer taste.
• Not blending enough: For a creamier texture, you may want to blend part of the soup. If you skip this step, it might be less satisfying.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing The Best White Bean Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating The Best White Bean Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best White Bean Soup.

Can I use other types of beans?

Yes! While cannellini beans are preferred, you can use navy or great northern beans as substitutes.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses only beans and vegetables.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking.

Can I make The Best White Bean Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup stores well and often tastes better the next day after flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

The Best White Bean Soup is not just quick and easy; it’s also incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite spices or additional vegetables. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a nutritious meal, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!