There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly day. Growing up in Crete, I remember my grandmother standing by the stove, stirring a pot of beans and herbs, the aroma filling the entire kitchen. That smell wasn’t just food it was comfort, love, and family all rolled into one. Today, I want to share my version of Easy White Bean Soup, a recipe that’s not only hearty and satisfying but also incredibly simple to make. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and brings people together.
This soup has been a favorite in my family for years. The creamy texture of white beans, combined with tender vegetables and fragrant herbs, makes it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy Sunday lunch. I like to keep my recipes straightforward without sacrificing flavor, and this Easy White Bean Soup is a perfect example of that. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and full of flavor.
What I love most about this soup is how versatile it is. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of olive oil, or even a squeeze of lemon to make it pop. And the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. This is comfort food made simple just the way I like it.
Ingredients 🧺
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions 👩🍳
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Add the beans and broth: Stir in the white beans, then pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes. The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors well combined.
- Blend (optional): For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, leaving some beans whole for a nice texture.
- Taste and adjust: Check the seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with parsley, Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
This Easy White Bean Soup is perfect served with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast
- A side salad for a light, balanced meal
- A sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a little heat
It’s also great as leftovers the flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Recipe Card ⏱️
⏱️ Time Cook: 35 minutes
🧺 Ingredients: See full list above
👩🍳 Instructions: Follow step-by-step instructions
📝 Note: You can swap canned beans for cooked dried beans for a fresher taste. Add kale or spinach for extra greens.
🍽️ Nutrition (per serving): ~220 calories, 9g protein, 6g fat, 30g carbs, 8g fiber
Why You’ll Love This Soup ❤️
This Easy White Bean Soup is more than just a meal it’s comfort in a bowl. The creamy beans, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs create a warming, nourishing experience that’s perfect for cold days. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, quick to make, and loved by kids and adults alike. Whenever I make it, I feel like I’m continuing my grandmother’s tradition, sharing warmth and happiness through food.
100-Word Short Version of the Recipe
Enjoy a comforting bowl of Easy White Bean Soup with this simple recipe! Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add canned white beans, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 20–25 minutes. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup. Serve with parsley, Parmesan, or olive oil drizzles. Perfect for a cozy lunch or weeknight dinner, this hearty soup is easy, quick, and full of flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or a salad for a complete meal. Simple, wholesome, and delicious