Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day; it envelops your senses with its soothing aroma and creamy texture. Imagine the cozy scent of garlic mingling with savory broth, inviting you to take that first comforting spoonful. a hearty kale Caesar salad This soup isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience, perfect for those nights when all you want is something hearty yet healthy.
And oh, let me tell you about the time I whipped up this delightful Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup for my friends during a surprise dinner party. As soon as they walked in, the smell had them drooling before they even sat down. We laughed, shared stories, and savored every bite—proving that food truly brings people together! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
- The vibrant greens and white beans create a visually appealing bowl of goodness.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with what you have handy in your pantry.
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings alike!
Ingredients for Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans are packed with protein and fiber, making them the star of this soup.
- Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach for vibrant color and nutrients; frozen works too if you’re in a pinch!
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a punch of flavor; try using roasted garlic for sweetness.
- Onion: A chopped onion adds depth; yellow or white onions work beautifully in this recipe.
- Vegetable Broth: A good quality broth enhances the soup’s flavor—homemade or store-bought works great.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing—it’s flavorful and healthy too!
- Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown—this should take about five minutes. Toss in minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Broth and Beans
Pour in about six cups of vegetable broth along with drained cannellini beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so everything can mingle nicely.
Step 3: Incorporate Spinach
Once simmering, add fresh spinach to the pot. Stir it around until wilted—it will shrink down like magic! This usually takes about two minutes.
Step 4: Season It Right
Add salt, pepper, and a generous squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up all those beautiful flavors. Taste it—you might find yourself needing more lemon juice!
Step 5: Blend If You Like
For a creamier texture, grab an immersion blender (or transfer carefully to a regular blender) and blend until smooth—but leave some chunks if that’s more your style!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer the soup into bowls, topping each serving with a drizzle of olive oil or extra lemon juice if desired. Add some crusty bread on the side for dipping—the ultimate comfort combination!
This Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is not just food; it’s love poured into a bowl. Enjoy every spoonful as you reminisce about cozy evenings spent laughing with friends or family—the perfect backdrop for any meal! perfect crunchy croutons.
You Must Know
- This delightful Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl!
- With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it at a casual gathering.
- It’s simple, nutritious, and downright delicious.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the Cannellini beans and broth, let them simmer, then stir in fresh spinach just before serving for that perfect tender crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this soup! Swap the Cannellini beans for chickpeas, or toss in some diced tomatoes for a tangy twist. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top never hurts either!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore that velvety texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh herbs like thyme or basil when cooking your Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup.
- Don’t skimp on the garlic; it enhances the dish beautifully.
- Lastly, keep an eye on your spinach—add it last to maintain its vibrant color and nutrients.
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my first dinner party where I served this soup. My friends were convinced I’d spent hours crafting it when really, it was my little secret!
FAQs :
What are the health benefits of Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup?
Cannellini beans are rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They promote heart health and aid digestion. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with minerals like iron and magnesium. Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-dense soup that supports overall well-being. The soup is low in calories yet filling, making it a great option for weight management. Regular consumption can help boost your immune system and improve energy levels.
Can I freeze Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup for later enjoyment. To do this, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It’s best to store it in portion sizes for easy reheating. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave on defrost mode. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until heated through for delicious results.
How can I customize my Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup?
You can customize Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup in various ways! For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or onion sautéed at the beginning of cooking. You might also incorporate different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist. zesty dressing for salads If you prefer a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before serving. Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or zucchini to boost nutrition and flavor even further!
Is Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. The ingredients focus on wholesome plant-based components that provide ample nutrition without compromising flavor. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone following a vegan diet or looking to reduce meat consumption while still enjoying hearty meals. For more inspiration, check out this One Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup recipe.
Conclusion for Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup :
In summary, Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup offers numerous health benefits while being deliciously satisfying. It’s packed with protein from cannellini beans and full of vitamins from fresh spinach. You can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences while keeping it vegan-friendly. pair with a fresh antipasto salad Enjoy this nutritious soup as a comforting meal that can be made ahead of time or frozen for later use!
Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort on chilly evenings. This nourishing soup features creamy cannellini beans and fresh spinach simmered in a savory garlic broth, creating a delightful blend of flavors. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect option for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with family and friends. Enjoy every spoonful of this wholesome meal that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cannellini beans (cooked or canned)
- 4 cups fresh spinach (packed)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add the cannellini beans. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice; adjust to taste.
- For a creamier texture, blend the soup partially using an immersion blender.
- Serve hot, drizzled with olive oil or extra lemon juice if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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