Imagine sitting down to a warm bowl of soup, the comforting aroma of rosemary filling the air, and the bright zest of lemon waking up your senses. Easy Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup is the perfect blend of wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. It’s hearty enough to fill you up, light enough to feel refreshing, and incredibly simple to make.
Why You’ll Love Easy Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup
This soup is the definition of comfort food. It’s packed with plant-based protein from white beans, rich in flavor thanks to aromatic herbs, and gets a zesty kick from fresh lemon juice. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday meal or a satisfying dish to share, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and can easily be made oil-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
Ingredients for Easy Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious soup to life:
Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
Olive Oil or Water | 2 Tbsp or ¼ cup | For sautéing |
Small Onion | 1 | Diced |
Large Carrots | 3 | Sliced or diced |
Celery Stalks | 2 | Sliced |
Garlic Cloves | 2 | Minced |
Dried Thyme | ½ tsp | No preparation needed |
Dried Rosemary | ½ tsp | No preparation needed |
White Beans (Cannellini, Great Northern, or Chickpeas) | 3 cans (15oz each) | Drained and rinsed |
Low Sodium Vegetable Broth | 4–5 cups | No preparation needed |
Tahini | 2 Tbsp | No preparation needed |
Lemon Juice | 1–2 lemons | Freshly squeezed |
Salt and Pepper | To taste | No preparation needed |
Fresh Parsley | To garnish | Chopped |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Value |
Calories | 250 |
Protein | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 36g |
Fat | 6g |
Fiber | 9g |
Sodium | 380mg |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup
1. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or ¼ cup water for an oil-free version) in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
2. Simmer the Soup
- Add the drained and rinsed white beans, vegetable broth, tahini, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Add the Lemon Juice
- Remove the soup from heat and stir in the juice of 1–2 lemons. Adjust the amount based on your preferred level of tanginess.
- Let the soup cool slightly; the broth will thicken as it stands.
4. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into individual bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Why Tahini Makes a Difference
Tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, adds a subtle nutty flavor and creamy texture to this soup without the need for cream. It’s also a great source of healthy fats and nutrients like calcium and iron, making this soup even more nutritious.
Serving Ideas for Easy Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup
This soup is satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- Homemade Artisan Bread: Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Classic House Salad: A fresh side to complement the heartiness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted zucchini or sweet potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for the Best Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup
- Use Fresh Herbs: If available, replace dried rosemary and thyme with fresh herbs for an even more vibrant flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Sauté them just until they soften to maintain their texture in the soup.
- Adjust the Consistency: Add more or less broth depending on whether you prefer a thicker or thinner soup.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of it using an immersion blender and stir it back into the pot.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning or lemon juice as needed.
Creative Variations of Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup
Spicy Kick
Add ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing step for a spicy twist.
Vegetable Medley
Incorporate diced zucchini, spinach, or kale for added color and nutrients.
Grain Boost
Stir in cooked quinoa or farro to make the soup even heartier.
Cheesy Garnish
Top the soup with grated Parmesan or a dollop of vegan cheese for a savory finish.
How to Store and Reheat the Soup
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5–6 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
FAQs About Easy Lemon Rosemary White Bean Soup
