Description
This Creamy White Bean Soup with Kale is a hearty and nourishing soup made with tender cannellini beans, sautéed vegetables, garlic, herbs, and nutrient-rich kale simmered into a naturally creamy and protein-packed meal. It’s ideal for healthy weeknight dinners or meal prep, featuring optional dairy or dairy-free creaminess and fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cups chopped kale (stems removed)
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Beans and Liquids
- 2 (15 oz) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 5–6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup milk, cream, or coconut milk (optional)
- Juice of ½ lemon (optional)
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Warm 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic and herbs: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper; cook for about 30 seconds until the mixture becomes aromatic.
- Add beans and broth: Pour in the drained and rinsed cannellini beans along with 5 to 6 cups of vegetable broth, stirring to combine all ingredients in the pot.
- Simmer soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Blend part of the soup: Carefully ladle 1 to 2 cups of the soup into a blender and pulse until smooth, then return this blended portion to the pot to create a creamy texture without cream.
- Add milk or coconut milk (optional): Stir in 1 cup of milk, cream, or coconut milk if you want a richer, creamier soup and heat through.
- Cook kale: Add the chopped kale to the pot and continue simmering for 5 minutes until the kale is tender but still bright green.
- Add lemon juice (optional): Stir in juice of half a lemon to brighten the flavor of the soup, adjusting to your taste.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Blending part of the soup creates a natural creamy texture without needing dairy.
- Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative to keep the soup vegan and lactose-free.
- The soup thickens as it cools; add additional broth when reheating to adjust consistency.
- This soup freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean / American