Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup

Name: Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained; 4 cups vegetable broth; 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or basil)

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup during the cooler months. The blend of creamy white beans and nutritious spinach creates a perfect balance of flavors that just warms my soul. I find that adding a touch of lemon zest really elevates the dish, enhancing the earthy tones of the beans and adding brightness. It's quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, making it a staple in my kitchen when I crave comfort food that’s healthy too.

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:02:47.100Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining spinach with white beans, I was shocked at how well they complemented each other. The creaminess of the beans paired with the vibrant freshness of spinach resulted in a soup that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrition. Each time I make it, I experiment with herbs and spices to find new layers of flavor that keep my family asking for more!

One of my favorite tips is to blend part of the soup to create a creamy base while leaving some beans and spinach whole for texture. This method not only makes the soup velvety but also ensures every spoonful is a delightful mix of flavors and richness. Trust me, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top makes it even more irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of creamy texture with vibrant spinach
Hearty and full of nutrients while being incredibly comforting
Quick to make, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup is undoubtedly the white beans. Using canned beans not only saves you hours of soaking and cooking, but they also provide a creamy texture when blended. If you’re aiming for a fresh twist, consider using cooked dry beans; just remember to adjust the broth quantity accordingly. Their earthy flavor complements the spinach beautifully, creating a balance that enriches the overall dish.

Fresh spinach adds more than just vibrant color; its mild taste allows the beans to shine through while contributing a wealth of nutrients. You can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard if spinach isn’t available, but be prepared for a slightly different flavor profile. Both alternatives will still add substantial health benefits, but their cooking times may vary slightly—kale requires a bit longer to soften.

Perfecting Your Soup Technique

When sautéing the onions, ensure they become translucent without browning; this should take about 5 minutes over medium heat. Browning will lead to a different flavor profile, which might overpower the soup’s subtlety. Waiting until the onions are just soft creates a solid flavor base that allows the sweetness of the garlic and the earthiness of the thyme to come through after an additional minute of cooking.

Using an immersion blender to puree part of the soup is my favorite technique; it allows you to easily control the texture and creaminess. If you opt for a traditional blender, be cautious—hot liquids expand rapidly and can splatter. To safely transfer, let the soup cool slightly and only fill your blender by no more than halfway. Blend in batches if needed, and always hold a towel over the lid to prevent any accidents.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and wholesome ingredients to make your soup:

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or basil)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and creamy soup:

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 dried thyme, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

Add the Beans and Broth

Add the rinsed white beans and vegetable broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 10 minutes.

Incorporate the Spinach

Once the soup is simmering, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and tender.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, puree part of the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer a portion to a blender, then return it to the pot.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the lemon zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving. It's also delicious with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese on top.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. For a heartier meal, pair it with crusty bread or a side salad. Adding a splash of vinegar or a dollop of yogurt can also enhance the flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate toppings like croutons or freshly grated cheese for an added layer of texture. Experimenting with flavor enhancers allows you to personalize each serving based on your mood.

For meal prepping, this soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to meld and develop, making it even tastier when reheated. When ready to serve again, simply warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. It can also be frozen for up to three months—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.

Dietary Modifications

If you’re looking for a lighter version, feel free to use low-sodium vegetable broth or even water as a base. You can also enhance the flavor with additional herbs or spices like cumin or paprika, adding a unique twist without significantly increasing calories. For those following a gluten-free diet, rest assured this soup is naturally gluten-free, as all ingredients align with such dietary restrictions.

For a vegan option, be sure to avoid any garnishes that contain dairy. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make an excellent topping and add freshness without compromising on dietary needs. If you're allergic to beans, this recipe can be modified with lentils, adjusting the cooking time slightly, or try using roasted zucchini to maintain a similar texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to reheat gently on the stove.

→ What can I substitute for white beans?

You can use chickpeas or cannellini beans as substitutes. Each will bring a unique flavor while still maintaining the creamy texture.

→ Is there a way to make this soup vegan?

Yes! This soup is already vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. Just ensure your vegetable broth is completely free from animal ingredients.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Certainly! Carrots, celery, or even broccoli work well in this soup. Just ensure to add them early in the cooking process to allow for proper cooking.