Discovering Greek White Bean Soup
My Favorite is Greek White Bean Soup and It was a chilly winter evening, and I found myself craving something warm and comforting. As I browsed through my collection of recipes, my eyes landed on a gem: Greek White Bean Soup. I remembered the recipe’s promise of a hearty, nutritious meal with Mediterranean flair. With a sense of excitement, I gathered my ingredients, ready to dive into this culinary adventure.
Creating the Aromatic Base
I started by heating up some olive oil in my Dutch oven. The sizzle of the oil as I added the chopped onions and minced garlic filled the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. The onions softened and turned translucent, and the garlic’s scent began to mingle with the olive oil. It was the perfect start to a cozy meal, and I could already tell this soup was going to be special.
Adding Fresh Vegetables and Tomato Flavor
Next, I tossed in the diced celery, sliced carrots, and chopped green bell pepper. As they cooked and started to soften, the kitchen was alive with vibrant colors and inviting smells. Mixing in the tomato paste and tomato puree, I could see the soup transforming into a rich, red concoction. The blend of vegetables and tomatoes looked so promising that I couldn’t wait to taste it.
The Perfect Final Touch
With the beans and vegetable broth added, the soup began to simmer. I sprinkled in dried oregano and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of warmth. After a few minutes of letting the flavors meld together, I took a taste. The soup was a perfect blend of creamy beans, fresh vegetables, and tangy tomato. As I drizzled a bit of olive oil on top and served it with a slice of crusty bread, I knew this Greek White Bean Soup would become a favorite for many winter nights to come.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Greek White Bean Soup
- Fresh vegetables and high-quality olive oil can make a big difference in the flavor of this soup. Always opt for fresh over canned if possible.
- Cut the vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly. This ensures that every spoonful of soup has a bit of everything.
- Allow the soup to simmer on low heat to develop a rich, deep flavor. Rushing this step can result in a less flavorful soup.
- Be mindful of the saltiness of your vegetable broth. If using store-bought broth, taste the soup before adding extra salt.
- If you prefer a creamier soup, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot, or use an immersion blender for a partial blend after cooking.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be added at the end for a burst of fresh flavor. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the soup.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to your heat preference. If you like it spicier, consider adding a bit more or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
- For a non-vegetarian option, consider adding cooked sausage or shredded chicken for extra protein and flavor.
- This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of Greek salad or a slice of lemony roasted chicken. Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt on top before serving adds a creamy tanginess.
Greek White Bean Soup
Dive into the heart of Greek cuisine with this delightful Greek White Bean Soup! This hearty, nutrient-packed soup is simmered to perfection with white beans, tomatoes, and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this one-pot wonder is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors or just looking for a wholesome meal, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
4
bowls10
minutes30
minutes250
kcal40
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Olive Oil Base
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil for sautéing and flavor
- Aromatic Base
1 large white onion finely chopped
4 garlic cloves minced
- Herbs and Spices
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Vegetables
2 celery stalks diced
2 medium carrots sliced
1 green bell pepper chopped
- Tomato Components
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup tomato puree (canned or fresh)
- Beans and Broth
2 cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
Directions
- Incorporate Tomato Elements – Mix in the tomato paste and tomato puree. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Combine Beans and Broth – Add the drained cannellini beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Final Touches – Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil on top.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Dutch Oven
- measuring cups and spoons
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 250kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 800mg
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 6g
- Vitamin A: 120IU
- Vitamin C: 50mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 15mg
FAQ-Greek White Bean Soup
Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans, but they will need to be soaked overnight and then cooked until tender before adding to the soup. This will increase the total cooking time.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I substitute for vegetable broth?
If you don’t have vegetable broth, you can use water, but consider adding a bay leaf or additional herbs to boost the flavor.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
You can thicken the soup by mashing some of the beans in the pot or by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water. Another option is to let the soup simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
