Name: Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 large carrots, chopped; 3 celery stalks, chopped; 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; ½ teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste; 3 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 5 ounces baby spinach; Grated parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 53 reviews

If you are searching for a comforting yet vibrant dish, look no further than the Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe. This soup is a beautiful celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together in a hearty broth, perfect for warming you up any day of the week. With tender white beans, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs, every spoonful delivers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will make this recipe your new favorite go-to for a nutritious, satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several fresh ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There is a clear glass bowl filled with light beige cooked beans on the top left, and below it, another clear bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves. Next to the bowls, three whole orange carrots lie side by side. Toward the center, a clear glass measuring cup holds a brown liquid broth. On the right side, there is one whole yellow onion, three green celery stalks with leaves, two peeled garlic cloves, a small glass bottle of olive oil, and a small clear bowl containing a mix of black pepper, dried green herbs, and white salt. The items are spaced evenly with nice color contrast and minimal shadows, all on the white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to creating a Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe that tastes like it was crafted with care. Each component plays an essential role in providing depth, color, and nourishing goodness that makes this soup truly special.

1 tablespoon olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing that adds a silky richness and authentic Mediterranean flavor.
1 large onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and complexity as it slowly softens in the pan.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a delightful punch of aroma and sharpness that wakes up the senses.
3 large carrots, chopped: Bring a subtle natural sweetness and vibrant orange color to brighten the soup.
3 celery stalks, chopped: Offer a mild, refreshing crunch and depth to the vegetable medley.
6 cups low sodium vegetable broth: A savory, light liquid that ties everything together without overt saltiness.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the soup with earthy, floral notes characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
1 teaspoon oregano: Adds warm herbal tones to complement the beans and veggies perfectly.
½ teaspoon salt plus more to taste: Enhances all flavors and balances the natural sweetness of vegetables.
½ teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste: Provides a subtle heat that lifts the dish without overpowering it.
3 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed: The creamy, protein-packed heart of the soup that adds comforting texture.
5 ounces baby spinach: Wilted into the broth for a fresh, green pop and a boost of nutrients.
Grated parmesan cheese for serving: A finishing touch that melts beautifully on top, adding savory richness.

How to Make Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about five minutes. This step is crucial as it lays down the flavorful foundation. Then add the minced garlic, chopped carrots, celery, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper, cooking them for another 2 to 3 minutes so the vegetables soften and the herbs release their lovely aromas.

Step 2: Add Broth and Beans to Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and the drained white beans, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before lowering the heat. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the beans to absorb the fragrant broth, resulting in a rich, comforting base.

Step 3: Incorporate Fresh Spinach

Next, stir in the baby spinach and continue to simmer the soup just long enough for the spinach to wilt, about two minutes. This bright green addition not only adds a fresh color contrast but also packs in leafy nutrients that elevate the heartiness of the soup.

Step 4: Final Seasoning and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and give the soup a taste. Adjust salt and pepper as needed to ensure perfect seasoning. Serve the soup piping hot with a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for an irresistible finish that adds a lovely umami richness with every spoonful.

How to Serve Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe

A white pot filled with a chunky soup showing three main layers: the base layer is a clear brownish broth; mixed within are small white beans, bright orange carrot cubes, and light green celery pieces, all evenly spread throughout; scattered spinach leaves add dark green spots on top, along with sprinkled light Parmesan cheese bits. A silver ladle scoops some of the soup, showing the same layers inside it. A glass bowl with chopped green herbs and a white bowl with grated cheese sit beside the pot on a white marbled surface, with a soft peach cloth under the pot's left handle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe by adding fresh garnishes like a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley, or even a few red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. A little parmesan cheese on top creates a creamy, savory contrast that takes each bowl to the next level of deliciousness.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping, making it a complete and satisfying meal. You could also serve it alongside a crisp Mediterranean salad, filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, to keep the meal light and vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy family dinner, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and add a few torn basil leaves on top for a pop of color. If you’re serving guests, try individual ramekins with a parmesan crisp perched on the side to add elegance and extra texture. You could even blend half of the soup for a creamier texture, then swirl in whole beans for contrast—such creativity makes eating even more fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners during the week. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness and avoid any absorption of other fridge flavors.

Freezing

If you want to save time later, this soup freezes wonderfully. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and is ideal for meal prepping big batches in advance.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or heat directly on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of parmesan for that perfect just-cooked taste.

FAQs

Can I use dried white beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to soak the dried beans overnight and cook them fully before adding to the soup. This step takes longer but offers a wonderful texture and flavor.

Is this soup suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, it easily can be vegan. Simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free and delicious.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or even some diced potatoes. Just adjust cooking times to ensure everything is tender.

What’s the best way to thicken this soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before stirring it back in.

How long does it take to make this soup from start to finish?

This Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe takes around 30 minutes total, including prep and cooking, making it an easy yet impressive option for any day.

Final Thoughts

There is something so heartwarming about this Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe that makes it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome meal full of flavor and comfort. Its simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create a nourishing dish you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your pot, gather those fresh veggies, and dive into this irresistible soup that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Vegetables Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need