Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup

Name: Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 4 cups fresh spinach, packed; Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup when I need something warm and nourishing. It’s a quick and easy recipe that combines the earthiness of white beans with the vibrant flavor of fresh spinach. The creaminess comes from a simple blend of the beans and broth, which creates a velvety texture that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether it's a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this soup is perfect for satisfying both my cravings and my need for a wholesome meal.

Created by

Kitty Lawrence

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:53:38.334Z

When I first tried making a soup with spinach and white beans, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors meld together. I sautéed some garlic and onions as a base, then added vegetable broth and creamy white beans. Blending half of the mixture gave it that expected silky texture, while leaving some beans whole added a delightful bite. Topping it all off with a swirl of olive oil elevates the taste even further!

I’ve found that using fresh spinach gives the soup a bright color and ensures it remains nutritious. I often tweak the seasoning, adding red pepper flakes for a little heat, which I highly recommend. Play around with the herbs, too—thyme works beautifully in this recipe!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy broth with a hint of garlic
Nutritious spinach packed with vitamins and minerals
Quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights

      

The Role of White Beans

White beans are the backbone of this soup, contributing both texture and richness to the overall flavor profile. Their creamy, smooth consistency enhances the soup's velvety texture when blended. I recommend using cannellini or navy beans for the best results, as they complement the spinach beautifully. Make sure to rinse the beans thoroughly to remove any excess sodium, especially if you're using canned varieties.

If you're looking for a unique twist, consider substituting half of the white beans with cooked cauliflower. This will not only lighten the dish but also add a subtle nutty flavor. Blending the cauliflower into the soup will create an equally creamy texture while keeping the ingredient list varied and interesting.

Tips for Cooking Spinach

When adding spinach to the soup, it's essential to include it towards the end of the cooking process. This prevents it from overcooking and turning a dull color. You want the spinach to wilt just enough to retain its vibrant green hue and packed nutrients. This bright color not only makes your soup visually appealing but also preserves the health benefits associated with fresh spinach, such as vitamins A and C.

For those who love an extra punch of flavor, try sautéing the spinach in the pot with the aromatics right before adding the beans. This method infuses the spinach with garlic and onion flavors, deepening the overall taste of your soup. Just be careful not to let the spinach get too wilted before blending.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator and can last up to four days in an airtight container. To enhance the flavors, consider allowing the soup to rest overnight before reheating; this gives the ingredients more time to meld together. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

If you want to freeze the soup for later enjoyment, make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. This soup will keep well for about three months in the freezer. When reheating, you may notice the texture has thickened; adding a splash of vegetable broth during the reheating process will help restore its creamy consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Spinach White Bean Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cups fresh spinach, packed
Salt and pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the aromatics

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

Add beans and broth

Stir in the rinsed white beans and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.

Blend for creaminess

Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer it to a regular blender and blend in batches.

Incorporate spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the blended soup and stir until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle a little olive oil over each serving, if desired. Enjoy your warm, flavorful soup!

Pro Tips

For an even heartier version, consider adding diced carrots and celery in the beginning with the onions. You can also finish the soup with a squeeze of lemon juice for added brightness.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your creamy spinach white bean soup, try garnishing it with a swirl of yogurt or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors. Additionally, serve it with some crusty bread or a warm baguette on the side for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy both hunger and taste.

For a protein boost, pairing this soup with grilled chicken or shrimp makes for a well-rounded dinner. If you want to keep it vegetarian, adding a scoop of quinoa or farro can complement the dish while providing additional textures. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as these ingredients can alter the overall flavor profile.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be doubled if you're cooking for a larger crowd or if you want to have leftovers for the week. Just make sure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume. If you choose to double ingredients, the cooking time may be slightly longer; be sure to monitor the soup closely as it simmers to avoid overcooking.

Alternatively, if you're cooking for one or just want a lighter meal, you can also halve the recipe. This soup still retains its rich flavor when scaled down, and you may find it’s a perfect portion for a quick lunch. Add a salad on the side to make it a more filling meal without drastically increasing the ingredient quantity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad.