Description
A hearty and nutritious White Bean Soup packed with tender vegetables, flavorful herbs, and creamy white beans. This comforting soup is perfect for a quick weeknight meal, simmered to perfection and finished with fresh spinach and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 large carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 5 ounces baby spinach
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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
Beans & Cheese
- 3 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, chopped carrots, celery, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to release the flavors.
- Simmer Soup: Pour in the low sodium vegetable broth and the drained white beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the baby spinach and continue simmering for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the soup.
- Finalize and Serve: Remove the pot from heat. Taste the soup and add extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve the soup hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use low sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness of the soup.
- For a creamier texture, partially mash some of the beans before adding the spinach.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the spinach.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nice umami flavor but can be omitted for a vegan version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American