Mediterranean White Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. This soup combines creamy white beans with the bright, fresh flavors of Mediterranean ingredients like tomatoes, spinach, and lemon. The result is a nourishing and satisfying soup that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Add Beans and Spices: Add the white beans, oregano, basil, cumin, and smoked paprika. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Spinach and Lemon Juice: Stir in the fresh spinach and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.
- Season: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy a warm bowl of this Mediterranean White Bean Soup as a perfect blend of rich, savory flavors and fresh, vibrant ingredients.
