Creamy White Bean Soup With Spinach

Name: Creamy White Bean Soup With Spinach
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love making this Creamy White Bean Soup With Spinach on chilly evenings. It’s a comforting dish that not only warms you up but also fills you with nutrients. The creamy texture comes from blending the white beans, which makes the soup rich and hearty. Adding fresh spinach gives it a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor that truly elevates the dish. Whether you're enjoying it alone or with friends, this soup is sure to impress!

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:21:35.445Z

Creating this Creamy White Bean Soup With Spinach has become a ritual for me in the colder months. I find that using canned white beans not only saves time but also adds a creamy base without the need for heavy cream. The secret lies in a quick blend of the beans before adding the other ingredients, which helps achieve that luscious texture.

One of my favorite details is the incorporation of fresh spinach towards the end of the cooking process. It wilts beautifully while retaining its vibrant color, creating a stunning visual contrast and an added nutritional boost. I often serve it with a crusty bread, making it a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Smooth and velvety texture that’s comforting and satisfying
Nutritious spinach adds both flavor and health benefits
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight dinners

The Importance of White Beans

White beans are not just a delightful addition; they serve as the base ingredient that gives this soup its creamy texture. When blended, they release their starches, thickening the soup without the need for heavy creams. This means we can enjoy a rich, velvety consistency that is also lighter on the gut. I recommend using cannellini or navy beans for the best results, as they provide a neutral flavor that also enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Additionally, these beans are packed with protein and fiber, making your soup not only hearty but also filling. This can be particularly useful when you're looking for a wholesome meal to satisfy your hunger on a chilly night. Utilizing canned beans speeds up the cooking process significantly, reducing prep time and allowing you to whip up this soup in about thirty minutes.

Enhancing Your Soup with Fresh Spinach

Adding fresh spinach not only brightens the color of your soup but also introduces a wealth of vitamins and minerals. The spinach wilts down quickly, absorbing the flavors of the broth, which is why it’s crucial to stir it in just before finishing the cooking process. For the best results, opt for young spinach; it’s tender and free from the tough stems that can alter the texture of your soup.

If you're looking for a variation, you can easily substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard. Just be mindful that these greens may require a slightly longer cooking time, about 2-3 extra minutes, to achieve that tender consistency. Enjoy experimenting with different greens to find your favorite combination!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to making a delightful soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the Beans and Broth

Add the drained white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Blend for Creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer it to a countertop blender.

Add Spinach and Seasoning

Stir in the chopped spinach, thyme, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Your delicious Creamy White Bean Soup With Spinach is now ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, feel free to top your soup with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips for a Creamy Finish

Using an immersion blender is a fantastic way to puree your soup directly in the pot without transferring it. However, if you're using a countertop blender, do it in batches to prevent overflow—just fill your blender jug halfway to avoid spills. When blending, pulse a few times before fully blending to achieve a smooth texture, checking for any remaining chunks if that's your preference.

For an extra boost of creaminess, consider adding a splash of unsweetened plant-based milk like oat or almond milk right before serving. This will enhance the soup’s richness without overpowering the beautiful flavors of the white beans and spinach.

Storage and Reheating

This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If the soup thickens too much as it sits, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up before serving.

For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just ensure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you'll find that the flavors have only improved over time. I often make a double batch to ensure I have a healthy option ready to go!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to soak and cook them beforehand. This will require additional time.

→ What can I substitute for spinach?

Kale or Swiss chard works well if you want a similar texture.

→ How long can I store the soup?

You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this soup is completely vegan and packed with plant-based goodness!