Mediterranean White Bean Soup

Introducing the heartwarming and wholesome Mediterranean White Bean Soup, a comforting blend of nutritious ingredients and aromatic flavors that’s as budget-friendly as it is delicious. This simple yet satisfying recipe boasts a medley of cannellini, great northern, and navy beans, combined with tender vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes, all simmered to perfection in a fragrant chicken broth.

Fresh kale adds a vibrant touch while the zing of lemon juice brightens every spoonful. Seasoned with a blend of Italian herbs and spices, this soup is a comforting embrace on chilly evenings or a nourishing pick-me-up any day of the week.

Plus, it’s kid-approved, earning rave reviews from even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re tightening the purse strings or simply craving a wholesome, flavorful meal, this Mediterranean White Bean Soup promises to satisfy both your appetite and your soul.

Mediterranean White Bean Soup

Ingredients:

1 can Cannellini beans

1 can Great northern beans

1 can navy beans

1 yellow onion

3 celery stalks (cut small)

3 large carrots (chopped or shredded)

Minced garlic

2 potatoes (cut small)

2 boxes of chicken broth

Fresh kale (chopped)

2 lemons

A little olive oil

Instructions:

Seasonings- Italian seasoning, cilantro, ground black pepper (I also used a dash of lemon pepper)

Use a dash of olive oil and sautee your onions, carrots, garlic, celery, potatoes until all is tender

Add both boxes of chicken broth

Drain beans & add them

Add chopped kale

Cut up two lemons and squeeze fresh juice into the soup mixture

Add seasonings to your liking

Boil until kale is tender and everything tastes right

That’s about it! So simple. So tasty. My kids ate it and kept calling me “beautiful chef mommy” and thanking me repeatedly lol.

Side note: My daughter doesn’t eat kale, onions, carrots or celery and she ate two bowls…fast & loved it!

If you are broke and looking for a cheap meal to make… Or not broke and just want something good to eat…. This is definitely worth trying

Notes:

Bean Variety: The combination of cannellini, great northern, and navy beans provides a diverse texture and flavor profile to the soup, creating a hearty and satisfying base.

Aromatics: Sauteeing the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots in olive oil enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup’s flavor.

Chicken Broth: Using pre-made chicken broth adds convenience and richness to the soup. Opt for low-sodium broth if preferred and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Kale: Adding fresh kale boosts the soup’s nutritional value with its rich source of vitamins and minerals. It also provides a vibrant color and slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of the vegetables.

Lemon: Squeezing fresh lemon juice into the soup brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing citrusy zing, enhancing the overall taste.

Seasonings: Italian seasoning, cilantro, and ground black pepper complement the Mediterranean flavors of the soup. Adjust the seasonings to suit personal preferences.

Cooking Time: Boiling the soup until the kale is tender allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring that all ingredients are cooked to perfection.

Kid-Friendly: Despite the inclusion of vegetables like kale, onions, carrots, and celery, this soup is enjoyed even by picky eaters, making it a family-friendly meal option.

Budget-Friendly: This recipe is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it ideal for those looking for affordable yet nutritious meal options.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of beans if I don’t have the exact ones mentioned in the recipe?

Absolutely! The recipe is flexible; you can use other white beans or a mix based on what you have.

Is it necessary to use fresh kale, or can I substitute with frozen kale?

Fresh kale is recommended for optimal texture, but frozen kale can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this soup in advance and reheat it?

Yes, the flavors often develop even more after sitting, so it’s a great make-ahead option.

How long does it take for the kale to become tender during boiling?

Kale usually takes about 10-15 minutes to become tender, but you can adjust based on your preference.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it vegetarian?

Certainly! Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a vegetarian version.

What’s the purpose of adding lemon juice to the soup?

Lemon juice adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the earthiness of the beans and greens.

Do I need to peel the potatoes, or can I leave the skins on?

It’s a personal preference. Leaving the skins on adds extra nutrients, but peeled potatoes work just as well.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned ones?

Yes, you can use dried beans, but they need to be soaked and cooked before adding to the soup.

Is it possible to freeze this soup for later use?

Yes, the soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Are there any recommended side dishes to serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a light salad, or a Mediterranean-inspired couscous dish. Enjoy!