Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup
Highlighted under: Smart Food
I fell in love with this Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup during a chilly afternoon when I craved something warm and nourishing. With a handful of ingredients, this soup delivers a velvety, satisfying experience that wraps you in comfort. The blend of spinach and white beans creates a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners. I enjoy making this soup because it's easy to customize and can be ready in under 30 minutes, ensuring that even my busiest days won’t keep me from a hearty meal.
When I first made this soup, I was amazed at how simple and quick it was to prepare. The creamy texture comes from the combination of blended white beans, which not only thickens the soup but also adds a rich, nutty flavor. I usually add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors, giving each bowl a fresh twist.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily swap in your favorite greens or beans based on what you have on hand. It’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste while creating something nourishing and satisfying for the whole family.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy texture that warms the soul
- Nutritious and packed with vitamins
- Simple ingredients that come together quickly
- Easily adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs
Perfecting the Creamy Texture
Achieving that velvety creaminess is key to the success of this soup. The white beans not only provide protein but also contribute to the luscious texture. When blended, they create a silky smooth base that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the spinach. Make sure to blend sufficiently; you want the mixture to be fully pureed for the best mouthfeel. If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve a cup of beans before blending and stir them back in for added texture.
For an even richer experience, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt after blending. This addition enhances the creaminess without overpowering the other flavors and can also provide an extra layer of nutrition. Just be mindful to adjust the seasoning slightly, as these ingredients can bring their own nuances to the dish.
Flavor Enhancements and Variations
The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability. If you're looking for an extra flavor boost, try incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or basil, which can complement the spinach wonderfully. Adding these herbs during the sautéing phase infuses the oil and enhances your overall flavor profile. You might also play with spices; a pinch of smoked paprika can add depth without heat, while nutmeg can bring a warm, earthy aroma.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the optional red pepper flakes are a great choice. Start with a small pinch and increase to your liking; this will allow you to customize the spiciness to suit your taste. Alternatively, you could add diced jalapeños with the onions for a fresh kick or top the soup with sriracha when serving.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This creamy spinach white bean soup is not only quick to prepare but also perfect for meal prep. Prepare a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze portions for later use. Ensure the soup is cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its creaminess; adding a splash of vegetable broth can help if it thickens too much.
If you plan to make this soup in advance, consider undercooking the spinach slightly. It will retain a brighter color and fresher taste when reheated. You can always add fresh spinach during reheating to keep the flavors vibrant, ensuring each bowl still feels like it was just made, even days or weeks later.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences!
Instructions
Instructions:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine the Ingredients
Add the white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender (or transferring to a blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
Add Spinach
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for about 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Enjoy!
This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for meal prep!
Pro Tips
- For an extra creamy texture, you can blend part of the spinach with the beans before adding it back to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
For an inviting presentation, serve the soup in hearty bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. A side of crusty bread or a light salad can complement the soup beautifully, making for a balanced meal. Personally, I love pairing it with a slice of sourdough, perfect for dipping!
If you want to elevate the experience, consider topping the bowls with toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for added crunch. Not only do these toppings add a delightful textural contrast but they also enhance the nutritional profile of the meal. Plus, the toasted flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.
Dietary Options and Substitutions
This soup is naturally vegetarian and can be easily adapted for vegans as well. Ensure you check the vegetable broth, as some may contain animal products. For a gluten-free option, this recipe is already compliant due to the lack of grains; however, if you serve it with bread, ensure you select gluten-free options. On the other hand, if you want to increase protein without the beans, shredded rotisserie chicken can be added along with the spinach.
If spinach isn't available, you can substitute it with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just be mindful that these greens may require slightly longer cooking times to become tender. If you're in the mood for something different, adjusting the base to include other legumes like lentils can provide an interesting spin on the dish, maintaining that creamy texture while offering unique flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding it.
→ What if I can't find white beans?
You can substitute with chickpeas or any other creamy bean.
→ How can I make this soup vegan?
This recipe is already vegan, just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or even zucchini would add great flavor and texture.
Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup
I fell in love with this Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup during a chilly afternoon when I craved something warm and nourishing. With a handful of ingredients, this soup delivers a velvety, satisfying experience that wraps you in comfort. The blend of spinach and white beans creates a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a go-to recipe for quick weeknight dinners. I enjoy making this soup because it's easy to customize and can be ready in under 30 minutes, ensuring that even my busiest days won’t keep me from a hearty meal.
What You'll Need
Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Using an immersion blender (or transferring to a blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for about 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice if using.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra creamy texture, you can blend part of the spinach with the beans before adding it back to the soup.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 12g