Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! My Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon is a beloved recipe in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and makes the kitchen smell absolutely divine. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

This soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s a chilly evening at home or a casual lunch with friends. Trust me; once you try this comforting dish, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This soup comes together with just a few basic ingredients and minimal fuss.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The combination of garlic and lemon makes this soup approachable and loved by all ages.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week for quick, healthy meals.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber-rich beans and fresh vegetables, this soup is as good for you as it is tasty!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that this recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Gather these up for a delightful cooking experience!

For the Soup

• 250 grams / 8.8 oz cannellini beans (or other small white beans) (soaked in water overnight)
• 6 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1/2 onion (minced)
• 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
• 1 carrot (cut into very thin slices)
• 1 stick of celery (finely chopped)
• 1 lemon zest + juice
• kosher salt + freshly ground pepper
• OPTIONAL: 500 ml vegetable stock

Variations

One of the best things about this Greek White Bean Soup is its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to switch things up based on what you have at home:

• Add Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients and color!
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a little kick.
• Change the Beans: Feel free to use any small white beans you like—great northern or navy beans work well too!
• Creamy Texture: Blend part of the soup to create a creamier texture while keeping some whole beans for added heartiness.

How to Make Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by draining your soaked beans and rinsing them under cold water. This helps remove any excess starch. Then, in a large pot, combine the beans with enough water to cover them by an inch. Bring it to a boil and then reduce to a simmer until they are tender—this usually takes about an hour. Cooking them from scratch enhances their flavor wonderfully.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In another pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sauté until translucent. This step is essential as it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions. After about 5 minutes, toss in the chopped garlic, sliced carrot, and celery. Sauté everything together until fragrant—not more than 3 minutes!

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once your beans are tender, drain them if needed and add them to your sautéed vegetables along with lemon zest and juice. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. If you’re using vegetable stock, pour it in now for added depth of flavor. Stir everything together gently; this will let all those wonderful flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Allow your soup to simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. This gives time for all those lovely flavors to develop further. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me; it’s hard not to sneak a taste before serving!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once ready, ladle generous portions into bowls. You can drizzle a little extra olive oil on top if you’re feeling indulgent! Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Enjoy every spoonful of your warm Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon—it’s truly comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Cooking can be a joyful experience, and with these tips, you’ll turn a simple soup into something truly special!

• Soak the Beans Overnight: Soaking beans not only reduces cooking time but also enhances their digestibility. This step ensures your soup is creamy and well-cooked without being overly starchy.

• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly chopped garlic brings a vibrant flavor that dried garlic simply can’t replicate. It adds a lovely aroma and depth to the dish, making each spoonful delightful.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more vegetable stock or water as it simmers. This allows you to customize the texture to your liking, whether you want it hearty or light.

• Don’t Skip the Lemon: The zest and juice of lemon brighten up the flavors beautifully. It adds a fresh tang that balances the richness of the beans, making your soup refreshing and invigorating.

• Experiment with Herbs: Adding herbs like parsley or dill can elevate this dish even further, bringing in additional flavors and colors. Fresh herbs enhance both taste and presentation, making your meal feel gourmet!

How to Serve Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Serving this delightful soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here’s how to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill on top not only adds color but also introduces an aromatic freshness that enhances every bite.

• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving creates a beautiful sheen and adds richness to the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Pita Chips: These are perfect for dipping! The crunchiness contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup, providing a satisfying texture combination.

• Greek Salad: A classic pairing, this salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta (or vegan alternatives) offers a refreshing crunch and complements the warm soup perfectly.

• Roasted Vegetables: Adding seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers provides a colorful and nutritious side that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the soup.

• Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Lightly seasoned skewers of grilled veggies bring an outdoor vibe to your meal. Their smoky flavor enhances the overall dining experience while keeping things healthy!

Enjoy crafting and savoring this delicious Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon—it’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon is perfect for meal prep! Its flavors deepen when it sits, making it an excellent dish to prepare in advance for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. For best quality, consider portioning into individual servings.

Reheating

• Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, you can directly heat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water if needed.

FAQs

If you’re still curious about this delightful recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I make Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon without vegetable stock?

Absolutely! You can use water instead of vegetable stock. Just be sure to adjust your seasoning accordingly, as vegetable stock adds extra flavor.

What beans can I use for Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon?

Cannellini beans are traditional, but you can substitute them with any small white beans such as navy beans or great northern beans. They will all work beautifully!

How long does Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon last in the fridge?

This delicious soup lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is there a way to make Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon spicier?

Definitely! You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to give it an extra kick that complements the garlic and lemon beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon becomes a comforting staple in your home! It’s simple yet full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making this delightful dish and savor each spoonful. Happy cooking!