Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will revolutionize your soup experience! This Black Bean Soup with Cilantro Pesto isn't just another recipe - it's a flavor explosion that combines the hearty richness of black beans with the vibrant, zesty punch of fresh cilantro pesto. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you're craving a nutritious meal that doesn't compromise on taste, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort dish that will impress both family and guests alike.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans black beans, drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup cilantro pesto
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 cans of black beans, 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 cup of cilantro pesto, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Next, add the drained black beans to the pot. Stir to combine them with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- After simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only half of the mixture and leave some beans whole.
- Stir in the 1 cup of cilantro pesto into the soup, mixing well to combine. This will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the dish.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed based on your preference.
- Once the soup is heated through, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the black bean soup hot, garnished with additional cilantro pesto if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, use freshly sautéed onions and garlic as your soup base - this builds a deep, aromatic foundation.
- When blending the soup, experiment with consistency: partially blending creates a rustic texture, while fully blending makes a smooth, creamy soup.
- The cilantro pesto is your secret weapon - don't be afraid to add a little extra for a more intense herbal note.
- If you want to elevate the protein content, consider adding diced chorizo or shredded chicken when sautéing the onions.
- Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning at the end. A pinch of salt can dramatically enhance the overall flavor profile.
- This soup freezes beautifully, so don't hesitate to make a double batch for future quick meals.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 362kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
