Hey there, friend! Have you ever craved a warm, comforting bowl of soup that not only fills your belly but also nourishes your body? That’s exactly what I think of when I make this High Protein White Bean Soup! It’s super easy to whip up, and it’s perfect for chilly days when you just want to sit back, relax, and enjoy something cozy. Trust me; you’re going to love how hearty and delicious this soup is!
Nutritional Benefits
This soup is packed with protein thanks to the white beans, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to boost their protein intake. Did you know that beans are also rich in fiber? That’s right! Not only does fiber keep you feeling full, but it also aids in digestion, which is a win-win in my book! Plus, with veggies like carrots, celery, and spinach, you’re getting a good dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It’s a true powerhouse meal that your body will thank you for!
Adaptable Variations to Make
- Chili Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat!
- Greens Galore: Feel free to substitute or add different leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard to pack in even more nutrients.
- Meat Lover’s Twist: If you crave some meat, a bit of diced cooked chicken or sausage can make this soup even heartier.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but if you want to thicken it, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch!
High Protein White Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed (like cannellini or great northern)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 2 cups baby spinach (or your choice of greens)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Serves 4–6 people
- Standard bowl portions → 4 servings
- Slightly lighter portions → up to 6 servings
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it’s translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.
- Just before serving, stir in the baby spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!
Practical & Valuable Tips
- If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup until smooth, then stir it back in.
- The soup stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days. To keep it fresher, store it in an airtight container!
- If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It’s best consumed within 3 months.
Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for making this delicious soup:
- A large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A cutting board and knife for chopping veggies
- A measuring cup for broth and beans
- An immersion blender (optional, for creamy texture)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use dried beans instead of canned ones? Yes! If using dried beans, soak and cook them beforehand according to package instructions.
- What can I use instead of spinach? Kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives and add their own yummy flavors!
- Is this soup freezable? Absolutely! Just remember to cool it before freezing for the best results.
- How can I make this soup heartier? You can add diced potatoes or even small pasta!
- I don’t have vegetable broth, can I use water? Yes, but using broth enhances the flavor significantly, so I recommend it if you can!
Did you give this High Protein White Bean Soup a try? I would love to know how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to share your thoughts or variations with me! Let’s connect on Pinterest for more cozy recipes that will make your kitchen feel like home!
