Greek White Bean Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that brings together the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. With its creamy texture, tender beans, and vibrant greens, this soup delights the senses and warms the soul. Whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a starter, it’s a recipe that celebrates wholesome ingredients and simple preparation.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 220
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
Why Make This Greek White Bean Soup
Making Greek White Bean Soup is a fantastic way to nourish both body and spirit. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein-rich beans, vibrant vegetables, and fresh greens that bring a burst of color and flavor. This dish is a great choice for a cozy meal at home or to impress guests at a dinner party. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. The flavors of garlic, herbs, and a squeeze of lemon provide a delightful freshness that makes each bite truly satisfying.
How to Make Greek White Bean Soup
Creating this flavorful Greek White Bean Soup is straightforward. With just a few steps, you can whip up a pot of goodness that will fill your home with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or great northern)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Soak the white beans overnight in water. Once softened, drain and set aside. This step helps to reduce cook time and enhances the beans’ texture.
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Step 2: Sautéing
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté vegetables until they soften, about 5-7 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld.
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Step 3: Cooking
Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. Cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy.
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Step 4: Finishing
Stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted, then remove the pot from heat. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon, and adjust seasoning if necessary.
How to Serve Greek White Bean Soup
Serve this soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad, making it suitable for a cozy meal or a festive gathering. Consider offering a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added richness.
How to Store Greek White Bean Soup
If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup also freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Greek White Bean Soup
- For a thicker texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the greens.
- If you don’t have fresh spinach or kale, frozen greens work well as a substitute.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for additional nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning based on your taste preference; a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat.
Delicious Variations
- Herbed Variation: Add fresh herbs like basil or dill for an aromatic twist.
- Smoky Touch: Incorporate diced smoked sausage or bacon for a smoky flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for a bit of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes! If using canned beans, simply add them during the cooking process. Reduce cooking time to about 20-30 minutes since they are already cooked. -
What if I can’t find white beans?
Cannellini or great northern beans are ideal, but you can substitute with navy or pinto beans instead. -
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After sautéing the vegetables, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. -
How can I make this soup heartier?
Incorporate other vegetables like diced potatoes or quinoa to enhance the dish’s heartiness. -
Can I omit the lemon juice?
Yes, but it adds a lovely brightness to the soup. If you prefer, you can replace it with apple cider vinegar or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Conclusion
Greek White Bean Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. With its ease of preparation and nourishing qualities, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re gathering around the dinner table or enjoying it solo, this soup is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and get cooking – you won’t regret it!
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Greek White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 100 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting and nutritious dish featuring creamy white beans, vibrant greens, and rich Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or great northern)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Soak the white beans overnight in water. Once softened, drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the soaked beans, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted, then remove from heat. Squeeze in lemon juice and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
For a thicker texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding greens. Substitute with frozen greens if fresh are unavailable.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
