Imagine a cozy evening, the gentle scent of lemon wafting through the air as you prepare a bowl of White Bean Lemon Soup. It’s not just soup; it’s a warm hug for your soul, a savory serenade that dances on your taste buds and wraps you in comfort. another comforting soup recipe chilly evening soup ideas The creamy white beans meld with zesty lemon juice, creating a delightful harmony that sings of both freshness and warmth. spicy potato soup alternative.
Now, picture this: It’s one of those days when everything seems overwhelming. You’re juggling work, family, and maybe even a rogue cat that insists on being the center of attention. Just when you think dinner is out of reach, this magical White Bean Lemon Soup emerges to save the day! Not only does it come together quickly, but its vibrant flavors can brighten even the gloomiest of evenings. For more inspiration, check out this lemon cheesecake squares recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This White Bean Lemon Soup is super easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
- Its bright flavor profile combines creaminess and zest that pleases everyone at the table
- Visually appealing with its elegant color, it’s sure to impress guests while being simple enough for any home cook
- Versatile enough to enjoy as an appetizer or main dish, it adapts beautifully to your dietary preferences
The last time I made this soup, my toddler exclaimed, “I love soup that tastes like sunshine!” I couldn’t help but chuckle while mentally noting that I should probably have them write my next cookbook intro.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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White Beans: Canned or dried are both great; just ensure they’re cooked well for creamy texture.
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Fresh Lemons: Use juicy ones for the best zing; don’t skimp on zesting!
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Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor; opt for whole cloves over pre-minced varieties.
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Vegetable Broth: Homemade or store-bought works; choose low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
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Spinach or Kale: Adds color and nutrients; feel free to swap in your favorite leafy greens!
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Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavor; extra virgin olive oil elevates the dish further.
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Cilantro or Parsley: Fresh herbs add brightness; choose your favorite for garnishing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse and drain canned white beans if using those. Chop garlic finely and zest a lemon for extra flavor.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute—don’t let it burn!
Add Beans & Broth: Toss in your rinsed white beans along with 4 cups of vegetable broth. Stir everything together until well combined and bring to a simmer.
Add Greens & Zest: Once simmering, stir in 2 cups of chopped spinach or kale along with the zest from one lemon. Cook for another 5 minutes until greens are tender.
Blend Until Creamy: For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer into a blender. Blend until creamy but still chunky for added texture.
Finish with Lemon Juice & Seasoning : Remove from heat and stir in juice from two lemons. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired; adjust brightness with more lemon juice if needed.
You now have a delightful bowl of White Bean Lemon Soup ready to warm your soul! Serve hot with fresh cilantro sprinkled on top, alongside crusty bread for dipping perfection. perfect flatbread pairing.
Enjoy every spoonful as flavors dance around your palate!
You Must Know
- White Bean Lemon Soup not only warms the soul but also brings a fresh twist to traditional soups
- The combination of creamy beans and zesty lemon creates an irresistible medley, perfect for any season
- Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add white beans and broth before simmering. Finish with lemon juice for brightness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this soup by adding kale or spinach for extra nutrients, or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over low heat to maintain its creamy texture. For more inspiration, check out this creamy vegetable soup recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance the flavors further, use homemade broth instead of store-bought
- Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed
- Garnish each bowl with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness
Sharing my first experience making White Bean Lemon Soup is like recalling my awkward teenage years—lots of learning and a touch of flavor disaster! Friends loved it so much they demanded I make it weekly.
FAQ
What can I substitute for white beans in this recipe?
You can use cannellini beans or chickpeas if you prefer a different flavor.
Can I freeze White Bean Lemon Soup?
Yes, freeze in portions for easy meals later; just omit the lemon juice before freezing.
How can I make this soup creamier?
Blend half of the soup mixture before serving for a creamier texture while keeping some chunks intact.
White Bean Lemon Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
White Bean Lemon Soup is a delightful, creamy dish that combines the comfort of white beans with the refreshing brightness of lemons. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pot recipe is quick to prepare and offers a burst of flavor that warms your soul and brightens your evening. Garnished with fresh herbs and served with crusty bread, it’s a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups canned white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest from 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Rinse and drain white beans. Mince garlic and zest one lemon.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add white beans and vegetable broth; stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in chopped greens and lemon zest; cook for an additional 5 minutes until greens are tender.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender until creamy but still slightly chunky.
- Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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