THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP Recipe

If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, look no further than THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP—a soul-warming recipe packed with creamy cannellini beans, vibrant vegetables, and fragrant herbs. This soup is an absolute game-changer, effortlessly combining simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into a rich, velvety delight with each spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just in need of some hearty goodness, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for satisfying nourishment and delicious flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP starts with uncomplicated yet essential ingredients that harmonize beautifully. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to add depth, texture, and a splash of color to the final dish.

• Cannellini beans (2 cans, drained): The creamy base of the soup, lending both protein and a velvety texture you’ll adore.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds a sweet and savory foundation to elevate the overall flavor profile.
• Celery stalk (1, diced): Delivers a subtle crunch and freshness to balance the richness.
• Carrot (1 large, diced): Brings natural sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
• Garlic cloves (1-2, diced or pressed): For that warm, aromatic kick and depth of flavor.
• Frozen spinach (1 cup, optional): Infuses the soup with a lovely green hue and a boost of nutrients.
• Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and chopped): Add body and creaminess once cooked and blended with the beans.
• Olive oil (1 Tbsp, plus more for serving): Enhances richness and helps meld flavors together.
• Tomato paste (1 Tbsp): Introduces a subtle tang and deepens the color beautifully.
• White wine (1/3 cup): Adds complexity and brightness — a little splash makes a big difference.
• Rosemary (1 sprig or 1 Tbsp chopped fresh/1/2 tsp dried): Imparts an earthy, piney aroma that complements the beans perfectly.
• Vegetable broth (2 cups or hot water): Forms the flavorful liquid base maintaining a light but hearty consistency.
• Paprika (1/2 tsp, optional): Provides a mild smokiness that rounds out the seasoning.
• Salt (1/2 tsp, plus more to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Black pepper (1/8 tsp, plus more to taste): Offers a gentle heat to awaken the palate.

How to Make THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, celery, and carrot, letting them cook gently until they soften and develop a sweet aroma, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavorful foundation that THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP is known for.

Step 2: Add the Garlic and Tomato Paste

Next, stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another couple of minutes. The tomato paste will intensify the color and introduce a lovely, subtle tang that elevates the soup’s depth without overpowering any other ingredients.

Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer until reduced by half; this concentrates the wine’s brightness, which perfectly balances the earthiness of the beans and rosemary.

Step 4: Combine Beans, Potatoes, and Broth

Add the drained cannellini beans, potato chunks, rosemary, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This allows the potatoes to gently soften and flavors to meld into that luscious, silky texture you want in THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP.

Step 5: Optional Spinach and Seasoning

If you choose to add frozen spinach, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of simmering. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste. The paprika adds a dash of smoky warmth—optional, but highly recommended.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess

For that signature silky consistency, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup directly in the pot, leaving some beans and veggies whole for delightful texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.

How to Serve THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Garnishes

The right toppings add personality to THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil creates a beautiful sheen and richness. Fresh chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of color and freshness, while crispy croutons introduce a satisfying crunch. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dash of chili flakes is also wonderful for layering in extra flavor nuances.

Side Dishes

This soup shines as a standalone star or as part of a bigger meal. Serve alongside a rustic crusty bread or warm garlic focaccia for irresistible dipping. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess delightfully. Roasted vegetables or a light cheese plate also pair well for a cozy, balanced lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP in individual hollowed-out bread bowls — fun and functional! You could also dollop some pesto or swirl in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving, adding a fresh, tangy dimension. Garnishing with whole herbs or edible flowers can make it look impressive for entertaining without extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more comforting. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP freezes wonderfully. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months — perfect for quick meals when you need nourishing comfort in a flash.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if it thickened in the fridge or freezer. Microwaving is an option too, but stirring often will help keep the texture even and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use dried white beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding to the soup. This takes longer but can enhance texture and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free broth and avoid any cheese garnishes. It’s a wonderfully inclusive meal for many dietary needs.

Can I substitute the white wine?

If you prefer to skip the wine, you can substitute with a splash of extra vegetable broth or a squeeze of lemon juice to keep that bright acidity. The soup will still taste fantastic.

What other herbs could I use besides rosemary?

Sage, thyme, or oregano make lovely alternatives or additions for similarly savory, aromatic notes. Fresh herbs are always best, but dried will work well too.

How thick should the soup be?

THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP is delightfully creamy but still spoonable, not overly thin or overly thick. You want it to coat a spoon easily while offering some texture from beans and veggies left whole after blending.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP that instantly feels like a hug from the inside. With its simple ingredients, velvety texture, and warm, heartening flavors, it’s a recipe worth making over and over. I promise once you try it, it will earn a beloved spot in your recipe collection — perfect for chilly nights or anytime your soul needs a little extra love.

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