Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, soup is always at the top of the list. A warm, hearty bowl of soup can make you feel cozy on a cold day and give you the energy you need. One of the best soups you can make at home is the Italian White Bean Soup.
The best part? You don’t need to be an expert cook to make this soup. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can prepare it in your own kitchen. Whether you are cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this Italian White Bean Soup will surely impress everyone.
Ingredients – Italian White Bean Soup
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this tasty soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans (cannellini or great northern beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step by Step Process – Italian White Bean Soup
Making this soup is very simple. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process easier and faster.
Step 2: Cook the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–6 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables are soft. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Seasoning and Broth
Now, stir in the oregano, thyme, and basil. Mix well so the spices coat the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Add Beans and Tomatoes
Add the white beans and diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together. Add the bay leaf, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend well.
Step 5: Adjust Texture
If you want the soup to be creamier, you can mash some of the beans with the back of a spoon or use a hand blender to puree a portion of the soup. This makes it thicker without adding cream.
Step 6: Add Spinach
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly and give your soup extra nutrients and color.
Step 7: Final Touches
Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot in bowls, topped with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if you like.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fiber | 9 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1 g |
| Sodium | 640 mg |
| Vitamin A | 85% of Daily Value |
| Vitamin C | 25% of Daily Value |
| Iron | 20% of Daily Value |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes! If you prefer dried beans, soak them overnight and cook them until soft before adding them to the soup. This takes more time but can give the soup a richer flavor.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
3. Can I freeze Italian White Bean Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Let the soup cool, then place it in freezer-safe containers. Thaw and reheat on the stove when ready to eat.
4. Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Just use vegetable broth and skip the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
5. What can I serve with Italian White Bean Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. It can also be enjoyed as a starter before a main dish.
Final Thoughts
Italian White Bean Soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that anyone can make. It is filling, healthy, and budget-friendly. The best part is its flexibility—you can adjust the vegetables, seasonings, or even add pasta to make it your own.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal, a cozy weekend dinner, or a dish to share with family and friends, this soup is the perfect choice. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a classic comfort food loved by many.
So, grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and make this delicious Italian White Bean Soup today. You’ll be surprised at how easy it is to cook something so tasty and satisfying!
