Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh spinach; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl whenever I want something both comforting and refreshing. The brightness of the lemon cuts through the richness of the white beans, making every spoonful a delightful balance of flavors. With each batch, I appreciate how quickly it comes together, perfect for a busy weeknight or a leisurely Sunday lunch. This recipe is not just nourishing; it's also a great way to sneak in some greens, thanks to the fresh herbs and spinach.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:31:11.923Z

When I first crafted this recipe, I aimed for a soup that was not only creamy but also light enough to enjoy throughout the year. The combination of white beans and vegetable broth creates a velvety base, while the lemon zest and juice brighten up the dish perfectly. It’s a delightful way to enjoy beans and greens together in a wholesome, comforting bowl.

As I tested this soup, I found that adding a touch of spinach right at the end keeps it vibrant and enhances its nutritional value. Plus, blending part of the mixture gives it a fantastic texture. The easy-going method makes it suitable for any skill level, and it’s a hit at the dinner table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture complemented by zesty lemon notes
Packed with protein and fiber from the white beans
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor profile of the Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl significantly. Fresh spinach not only provides a vibrant color but also a boost of nutrients. When selecting your spinach, look for bright green leaves without any wilting or yellowing. This ensures that the final product is not just visually appealing but also loaded with vitamins, making each bowl a nourishing meal.

Similarly, fresh garlic and onion bring depth to the soup's flavor. Always opt for firm, unblemished cloves of garlic and onions with papery skins for the best taste. Sautéing these aromatics until translucent creates a fragrant base that forms the backbone of this soup's comforting flavor. If you're ever in a pinch, dried garlic or onion can work in a crunch, but the essence won't fully compare.

Blending Techniques

Using an immersion blender is ideal for this soup, as it allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot, minimizing mess. For those without an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender. Just be cautious—let the soup cool slightly and remove the center cap of the blender lid to avoid steam buildup. Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot and finish with the spinach and lemon.

Blending to your desired consistency is crucial; for a creamier texture, blend longer until the soup is smooth and glossy. If you prefer a chunkier version, blend just enough to break down some of the beans while leaving others intact, creating a lovely contrast in textures.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delicious creamy soup.

Main Ingredients

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh spinach
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a nourishing bowl of 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 cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Add the Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Blend and Finish

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, and fresh spinach. Cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy your Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup!

Garnish with extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, top the soup with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill right before serving.

Storing and Reheating

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing it in portion-sized containers—it’ll stay fresh for about three months. Just make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

When reheating, gently warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop until hot. If the soup appears too thick after refrigeration or freezing, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well to combine before serving.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize your Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl! Adding diced carrots or celery when sautéing the onions can introduce additional flavors and textures. For a spicier kick, try incorporating crushed red pepper flakes into the pot during the sauté. It enhances the overall flavor and can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.

For a decadent twist, you could also blend in some nutritional yeast or grated cheese at the end for added creaminess and depth of flavor. Alternatively, swap out some of the white beans for chickpeas or lentils to change the protein profile. Each variation allows you to make this recipe uniquely yours while still maintaining the delightful essence of the original.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! All the ingredients listed are already vegan, making it a great choice for plant-based diets.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! The soup freezes well. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.