Dive into a bowl of comfort with our delightful White Bean Spinach Pesto Soup! This Italian-inspired dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing delight that combines the creamy goodness of white beans with the vibrant freshness of spinach and the aromatic charm of basil pesto. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days. Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your family with this easy yet gourmet recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups white beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining and rinsing white beans, chopping onion, mincing garlic, and measuring out spinach and pesto.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release aromatic flavors.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and add the drained white beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let the beans and broth cook together for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the beans to become tender and absorb the broth's flavors.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt into the soup, which should take approximately 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and stir in the basil pesto, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and optionally garnish with additional fresh basil or a drizzle of extra pesto.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onions and mince the garlic in advance. You can also rinse and drain the white beans the night before to streamline your cooking process.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix in other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for added nutrients and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly for tougher greens.
- Pesto Perfection: Use homemade basil pesto if you have it on hand for a fresher taste, or choose a high-quality store-bought version for convenience.
- Add a Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions for a spicy twist.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top of each bowl can elevate the flavors even further and add a rich creaminess.
- Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
