Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 large lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Favorites

I love making this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. The blend of white beans and fresh lemon creates a deliciously creamy texture that is both satisfying and invigorating. With just a handful of simple ingredients, I can whip up this hearty soup in no time. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, and it never fails to impress my family and friends with its bright flavors.

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:13:34.635Z

During a recent cooking session, I decided to experiment with white beans as the base for a soup. I quickly fell in love with the flavor that fresh lemon adds, making the soup bright and refreshing. The creaminess comes from blending part of the beans, which creates a luxurious texture without using heavy cream. This method also boosts the soup's protein content, making it nutritious and filling.

One tip I found really helpful was to sauté garlic and onion before adding the rest of the ingredients. This step enhances the overall depth of flavor. Additionally, I like to finish the soup with a splash of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added brightness and presentation. Enjoying this dish on a rainy day wraps me in warmth and comfort.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Luscious creaminess that is dairy-free
Bright lemon flavor that wakes up your taste buds
Nutritious and filling, perfect for any meal
Easy to make, even for beginner cooks

      

The Role of White Beans

White beans are the star of this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup, contributing both substance and a velvety texture without the need for dairy. These legumes are packed with protein and fiber, which makes the soup not only satisfying but also nutritious. When choosing beans, you can opt for cannellini or great northern varieties, both of which offer a creamy consistency that blends beautifully when pureed.

Rinsing the beans is crucial since it removes excess sodium and any canning liquid that might contribute an off flavor. This preparation ensures that the bright essence of the lemon and garlic shines through. If you're feeling adventurous, try using dried beans soaked overnight for an even richer flavor and texture.

Making the Soup Creamy

Blending the soup with an immersion blender is key to achieving that luxurious creaminess. This tool lets you control the texture; if you want to keep some beans whole for added texture, just blend until you reach your desired smoothness. Ensure you move the blender around the pot to incorporate all the ingredients well, which helps to release the starches from the beans, further thickening the soup.

If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Just remember to let it cool slightly to prevent any splattering. Always start blending on a low speed, then gradually increase to achieve a silky finish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 large lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Beans and Broth

Add the drained white beans, vegetable broth, lemon zest, and juice to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, reserve some whole beans to stir back in.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with a little extra olive oil. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips

For extra creaminess, blend in a splash of coconut milk or almond milk. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or spinach for additional nutrition.

Flavor Enhancements

While this soup is delightful as is, adding a touch of depth can elevate it further. Consider incorporating spices such as smoked paprika or cumin to introduce a warm undertone. These spices blend beautifully with the bright lemon flavor, creating a more complex profile without overshadowing the primary ingredients. Just a pinch will do—start small and adjust according to your palate.

For an extra kick, a splash of white wine added after sautéing the onions can bring a sophisticated layer of flavor. Allow it to reduce for a few minutes before adding the beans and broth, which will enhance the soup's richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy consistency.

If you notice the soup has thickened after refrigeration or freezing, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water during reheating. This will help return it to the desired creamy texture, ensuring every bowl is as delightful as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you will need to soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they're soft and creamy.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Freeze it in portions for easy meals. Just remember to cool it completely before putting it in the freezer.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with a crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.