Name: Mediterranean White Bean Soup with Lemon and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Description

A nourishing Mediterranean-inspired soup filled with creamy white beans, vegetables, herbs, and a bright touch of lemon. This wholesome soup is easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Soup Base

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Beans and Broth

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth

Herbs and Seasonings

1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried thyme
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon

Greens and Garnish

2 cups fresh spinach
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare the base for the soup.
Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 6 minutes.
Add Aromatics: Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried thyme, cooking for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Add Beans and Broth: Pour in the drained white beans and vegetable broth, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Simmer Soup: Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
Blend Portion (Optional): For a creamier texture, remove a portion of the soup and blend it until smooth, then stir back into the pot.
Add Spinach: Stir fresh spinach into the soup and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Finish with Lemon and Parsley: Add the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley, stirring to incorporate the bright, fresh flavors.
Season and Serve: Adjust salt and black pepper to taste, then serve the soup warm for a comforting meal.

Notes

Cannellini or Great Northern beans work best for a creamy texture and mild flavor.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil for added freshness and richness.
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat gently before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mediterranean