Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe

Make a comforting Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe in just 30 minutes! This soup is not only quick to prepare but also packed with hearty cannellini beans, fresh spinach, and vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for weeknight meals, providing a nutritious option that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe fits the bill.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with beans and spinach, it’s a great source of protein and vitamins.
• Versatile Flavors: Customize with your favorite herbs or spices for a personal touch.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required—everything cooks in one pot!
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for easy meals later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything at hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Ideal for making soups, as it provides ample space to cook all ingredients evenly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient cutting of vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your soup.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
– 1 onion (large, diced)
– 1 celery rib (sliced)
– 3-4 garlic cloves (minced)
– 4 cups vegetable stock
– 1 yellow potato (large, peeled and grated)
– 1 bay leaf
– ½ teaspoon thyme (dried)
– 1 19-ounce can white beans (drained and rinsed)
– 10-12 ounces spinach (chopped, tough stems removed)
– 1 tablespoon Italian parsley (fresh, minced)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
– 1-2 tablespoons grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. (optional)
– salt and pepper (to taste)

How to Make Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Drizzle olive oil in a large stockpot set over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onions and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until onions are translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the garlic to the pot and cook for barely a minute, stirring frequently.

Step 4: Combine Stock and Spices

Add the vegetable stock, grated potato, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Reduce heat to medium. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Step 6: Add Beans

Stir in the white kidney beans and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pot. Simmer for just one more minute until wilted.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Adjust salt and pepper seasonings as needed.

Step 9: Serve

If desired, garnish with cheese before serving. Enjoy immediately!

How to Serve Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe

This Easy White Bean Spinach Soup is delicious on its own, but there are various ways to elevate your meal. Here are some serving suggestions that will complement the flavors of this hearty soup.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup. It’s great for dipping and adds a satisfying texture.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano on top before serving. The cheese melts slightly and enhances the flavor of the soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds richness and a lovely finish to each bowl.

With a Side Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette. This adds freshness and balances the hearty soup.

Accompanied by Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

• Pairing your soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich creates a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any day.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs like basil or more parsley can be sprinkled on top before serving for an added burst of flavor and color.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe

To make this Easy White Bean Spinach Soup even better, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality vegetable stock will boost the taste significantly.
• Adjust seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spices as you go. Each ingredient can vary in strength.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors, but make sure not to overcook the spinach.
• Blend for creaminess: For a creamier texture, consider blending part of the soup before adding back the beans and spinach.
• Add protein: If desired, add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein while maintaining the soup’s heartiness.
• Store properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat.

Best Side Dishes for Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe

This Easy White Bean Spinach Soup pairs well with several side dishes that enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread enhances your meal’s flavor while being perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a nutritious side while complementing the flavors of your soup.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing offers a healthy grain option that pairs well.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or grains make an appealing and filling side dish.
6. Cheese Platter: A simple cheese platter featuring assorted cheeses can be an excellent addition for those who love variety.
7. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory soup.
8. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette adds another texture while being easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy White Bean Spinach Soup, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring the onion: Sautéing onions until translucent is crucial for developing flavor. Skipping this step can lead to a bland soup.
• Overcooking spinach: Adding spinach too early may cause it to lose its vibrant color and nutrients. Stir it in at the end for the best results.
• Not seasoning properly: Failing to taste and adjust salt and pepper can leave your soup flat. Always check seasonings before serving.
• Using stale beans: If you’re using dried beans, ensure they are fresh. Old beans may not cook properly and can ruin your soup’s texture.
• Skipping the lemon juice: The acidity from lemon juice brightens flavors. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall taste of your soup.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe that might help you further.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes! You can substitute kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this Easy White Bean Spinach Soup Recipe vegan?

To keep this recipe vegan-friendly, simply omit any cheese or substitute with a plant-based option.

What can I serve with my Easy White Bean Spinach Soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The Easy White Bean Spinach Soup will last about 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Easy White Bean Spinach Soup is not only comforting but also versatile and nutritious. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl of warmth!