Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve landed in the right place! This Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also brings a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible. Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of this soup on a chilly evening, with the refreshing zing of lemon and the comforting essence of garlic—it’s pure bliss!

What makes this recipe so special is its wholesome ingredients and the fact that it’s entirely made from scratch. Plus, it can easily be prepped ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Nutritious Comfort: Packed with fiber and protein from the beans, it’s a healthy choice for dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and creamy texture.
• Make-Ahead Delight: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prep.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize it to your taste with different herbs or veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce, you can create something truly special. Let’s gather what we need for our Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon.

For the Soup

• 250 grams / 8.8 oz cannellini beans (or other small white beans) (soaked in water overnight)
• 6 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1/2 onion (minced)
• 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
• 1 carrot (cut into very thin slices)
• 1 stick of celery (finely chopped)
• 1 lemon zest + juice
• kosher salt + freshly ground pepper
• OPTIONAL: 500 ml vegetable stock

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Add Some Greens: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your soup.
• Change Up the Beans: Try using different varieties of beans like navy or great northern for a unique twist.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill to brighten up the flavors even more.

How to Make Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Step 1: Soak Your Beans

Start by soaking your cannellini beans overnight. This step is crucial as it softens them and reduces cooking time. Plus, soaking helps improve their digestibility—always a win!

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in your minced onion and sauté until they become translucent—about 5 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness! Next, add chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Now it’s time to add those vibrant vegetables! Stir in your sliced carrot and finely chopped celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly. This adds depth to our soup’s flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Drain and rinse your soaked beans before adding them to the pot. If you’re using vegetable stock, pour that in now along with enough water to cover everything by an inch. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Reduce heat to low and let your soup simmer for about 90 minutes until the beans are tender. If you want a thicker texture, mash some beans against the side of the pot with a spoon—this adds creaminess without any dairy!

Step 6: Finish It Off

Once your soup is ready, stir in lemon zest and juice right before serving. The citrus will brighten up all those beautiful flavors you’ve built up during cooking!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon that’s sure to warm both body and soul! Enjoy every last spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Creating a delicious Greek white bean soup is a breeze when you keep these helpful tips in mind!

• Soak Your Beans: Soaking the cannellini beans overnight not only softens them but also reduces cooking time and enhances their creaminess, making your soup richer and more flavorful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onion, and lemon zest will bring vibrant flavors to your soup. The difference in taste is noticeable and elevates your dish from good to great.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of it after cooking. This will give it that creamy texture without using dairy or any thickeners.

• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Proper seasoning helps to balance the flavors of the beans and vegetables, creating a well-rounded dish.

• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner ready when you are!

How to Serve Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Presenting your Greek white bean soup beautifully can make all the difference at the dinner table. Here are some serving suggestions that will impress your guests or make your family feel extra special!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness, complementing the lemony flavor beautifully.
• Lemon Wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side allows everyone to adjust the citrus punch to their preference.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, offering red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick to each bowl.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese (or a plant-based alternative) pairs wonderfully with the warm soup, adding crunch and acidity.
• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinated and grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are not only colorful but also provide a smoky flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
• Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is ideal for dipping into the hearty soup. You could even brush it with olive oil and toast it for added texture.
• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side that balances out the softness of the soup with delightful crunch.

Enjoy your culinary journey with this wholesome Greek white bean soup! Each bowl promises warmth, nourishment, and plenty of smiles around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon is a fantastic choice for meal prep! It stores well, making it easy to whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Consider freezing in individual servings for quick lunches or dinners.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
• If the soup has thickened too much after storage, you can add a splash of vegetable stock or water while reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon without soaking beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans as a shortcut. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to your soup. This will save you time but soak dried beans for better texture!

How can I enhance the flavor of Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon?

To enhance flavors, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top just before serving adds freshness too!

Can I adjust the thickness of my Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon?

Absolutely! If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it with an immersion blender. For a thinner consistency, simply add more vegetable stock or water while cooking.

Is Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon suitable for vegans?

Yes! This recipe contains no animal products and is perfect for anyone following a vegan lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon as I am! Its warm and comforting flavors make it perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or meal prep for busy weekdays. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy cooking!