Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe

If you are looking for a comforting, wholesome bowl to warm your soul, this Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining creamy cannellini beans with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, this soup delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture with every spoonful. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner for chilly evenings or a nourishing lunch packed with plant-based goodness, this recipe is your go-to option for a simple yet deeply flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen not only for its individual taste but also for how it comes together to create layers of flavor, hearty texture, and vibrant color. Let’s break down what you’ll need to transform basic pantry staples into something spectacular.

• 2 cups dried cannellini beans (or 4 cups canned, drained and rinsed): The creamy base of the soup that provides protein and a luscious texture.
• 1 large onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth once softened.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with its signature aromatic warmth.
• 2 carrots, diced: Bring a touch of natural sweetness and beautiful color.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: Offers a mild bitterness and pleasant crunch to balance flavors.
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): The flavorful liquid that ties everything together.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with their juices: Adds acidity and brightness for a well-rounded flavor profile.
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried): Brings an earthy herbaceous note that complements the beans perfectly.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle layers of complexity to the broth.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
• 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (optional): Introduces a pop of green and extra nutrition.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for serving): Adds a refreshing zest that brightens the finished soup.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving): Offers a salty, savory finish, perfect for garnishing.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh herbaceous lift right before serving.

How to Make Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

If you’re using dried cannellini beans, the first step is to soak them overnight in plenty of water. This softens the beans and cuts down cooking time, ensuring they become tender and creamy. For those using canned beans, simply drain and rinse thoroughly to remove excess sodium and any canning flavors.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté them gently for 5 to 7 minutes. This softens the vegetables and allows their natural sweetness to develop, forming a flavorful base for the soup. When the veggies are translucent and tender, it’s time to move on.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute. The garlic gets fragrant quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning, which can impart bitterness. This step really boosts the depth of flavor and makes the soup wonderfully aromatic.

Step 4: Combine Broth, Beans, and Herbs

Pour the vegetable broth into the pot, then add the soaked or canned cannellini beans. Toss in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, fresh thyme leaves, and the bay leaf. These ingredients merge to create a rich, savory broth that will simmer into something delicious.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Keep the pot uncovered and let it cook for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you’ve used dried beans, this is when they become perfectly tender, and all the flavors marry into a hearty, soul-soothing bowl.

Step 6: Adjust the Texture

For a silkier soup with some creamy body, use an immersion blender to partially puree the soup right in the pot, or blend a cup of the soup in a blender and add it back into the pot. This is a fantastic way to retain some texture while creating a luxuriously smooth consistency.

Step 7: Add Greens

If you’d like a boost of color and nutrients, stir in the chopped kale or spinach about five minutes before finishing. The greens will wilt just enough to stay tender but still vibrant, making the soup visually appealing and even more nourishing.

Step 8: Final Seasoning

Season the soup generously with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in the lemon juice if you’re using it. The lemon adds a lively brightness that balances the earthy beans and savory broth wonderfully.

Step 9: Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls and prepare to enjoy a hearty meal that feels both light and deeply satisfying. Garnish as desired, and get ready to savor every bite!

How to Serve Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe

Garnishes

The perfect garnish can take your Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe from tasty to memorable. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty richness that melts gently into the warm soup, while fresh chopped parsley offers a bright, fresh contrast. For a bit of extra zing, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few chili flakes can be wonderful as well.

Side Dishes

This soup shines beautifully alongside a slice of crusty artisan bread, perfect for dipping. A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the soup’s warmth with crisp, refreshing textures. You could also serve a light grilled vegetable plate for a more filling meal, or simply enjoy the soup on its own as a satisfying one-pot wonder.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant touch, serve the soup in individual mini cocottes or soup bowls topped with a swirl of herb oil or a dollop of ricotta cheese. Adding toasted pine nuts or crispy pancetta on top provides delightful texture contrasts. If you want to impress guests, pair the soup with a small tasting board of cheeses and olives to turn your meal into a cozy dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe is perfect for making ahead because the flavors deepen after a day or two. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating to keep its fresh taste intact.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this soup on a busy day, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just leave some headspace for expansion and label your containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of broth or water can refresh the soup if it has thickened during storage. This slow reheating helps restore the wonderful consistency and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use canned cannellini beans instead of dried?

Absolutely! Using canned beans saves soaking and cooking time. Just be sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce excess sodium and preserve the soup’s fresh flavors.

Is this soup vegetarian or vegan-friendly?

This Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe is naturally vegetarian, and you can easily make it vegan by using vegetable broth and skipping the Parmesan cheese garnish or using a vegan alternative.

How can I make the soup thicker or creamier?

Partially blending the soup with an immersion blender or blending a portion in a countertop blender creates a lovely creamy texture without using cream. You can also mash some beans against the pot’s side to thicken the broth naturally.

What herbs work best in this soup?

Thyme is traditional and pairs wonderfully with beans, but you can also experiment with rosemary, oregano, or fresh basil for different flavor twists. Just add delicate herbs at the end to keep their brightness.

Can I add meat or sausage to the soup?

Yes! For a heartier version, brown some Italian sausage or diced pancetta and sauté it with the vegetables at the beginning. It will lend a smoky, savory depth that elevates the classic Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels homemade and comforting while being surprisingly easy to prepare with simple ingredients. It’s nutritious, versatile, and hits every comfort food note without fuss. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again, sharing this cozy bowl of goodness with everyone you love.

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