Cozy White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta Recipe

If you are looking for a warm and hearty meal that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, this White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta is exactly what you need. Packed with tender white beans, vibrant spinach, and perfectly cooked pasta, this soup brings together simple yet powerful ingredients to satisfy your hunger and nourish your body. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy day calling for something quick and wholesome, this recipe delivers cozy flavor with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and Filling: Loaded with protein-packed white beans and iron-rich spinach, it’s a meal that energizes and satisfies.
• Easy to Make: With simple pantry staples and minimal prep, you can have this soup ready in under 40 minutes.
• Comforting and Flavorful: The gentle blend of savory broth, tender greens, and pasta creates a soothing taste experience.
• Flexible Ingredients: Ideal for swapping in your favorite veggies or protein, making it perfect for diverse dietary needs.
• Perfect for Any Season: Light enough for spring but hearty enough for cold nights, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient for this White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta plays a crucial role—whether it’s for texture, flavor, or color—bringing balance and warmth to every bowl. Everything is simple yet intentional, making this dish approachable for cooks of all levels.

• Cannellini Beans: These creamy white beans provide protein and a velvety texture to the soup.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, slightly earthy flavor, plus loads of nutrients.
• Small Pasta (like ditalini or small shells): Offers chewiness and heartiness, perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Garlic and Onion: Build a savory base that enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: Uses as the savory liquid foundation, keeping the soup light and flavorful.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps blend the ingredients smoothly.
• Crushed Red Pepper (optional): For a subtle kick that awakens the palate.
• Lemon Juice: Brightens the soup’s flavors and balances the creaminess of the beans.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance and round out the taste.

Variations for White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to tweak it according to what’s in your pantry or your personal preferences. Customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs without losing that comforting spirit.

• Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein if you’re not vegetarian.
• Greens Swap: Substitute kale or swiss chard for spinach to vary the texture and flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Increase crushed red pepper or add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky warmth.
• Grain Alternative: Swap pasta for quinoa or barley for a gluten-free or whole grain option.
• Cheesy Topper: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino for an ultra-rich finish.

How to Make White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, gently cooking until softened and fragrant. This step unlocks the base flavor for the entire soup.

Step 2: Add Broth and Beans

Pour in vegetable broth and rinsed cannellini beans. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to mingle and the beans to warm through.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add your chosen small pasta directly into the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions until just tender, stirring occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking.

Step 4: Stir in Spinach

Once the pasta is cooked, gently fold in fresh spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, which only takes a few minutes, preserving that vibrant green color and fresh taste.

Step 5: Season and Finish

Taste your soup and season with salt, pepper, crushed red pepper (if using), and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. Stir well and remove from heat.

Pro Tips for Making White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta

• Use Fresh Spinach: It wilts quickly and adds a beautiful texture and color contrast.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Aim for al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the soup.
• Reserve Some Pasta Water: Add a splash if the soup needs loosening up without diluting the flavor.
• Rinse Beans Well: This removes excess sodium and prevents bitterness.
• Layer Flavors: Sauté onions and garlic first to build a rich aroma foundation.

How to Serve White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta

Garnishes

Always dress your soup with a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil to add a fragrant, fresh punch right before serving. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of grated cheese also elevates the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a light side salad with a citrusy vinaigrette to keep things fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting touch, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or chili flakes on top. You can also offer lemon wedges on the side for guests to tailor the brightness to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes well if you leave out the pasta or freeze it separately. Store soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much and stir in any fresh pasta just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use canned spinach instead of fresh?

While canned spinach can be used, fresh spinach offers better texture and flavor, making the soup livelier and more vibrant.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! As long as you use a vegetable broth and skip cheese garnishes, this White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta is entirely plant-based.

What pasta works best in this soup?

Small shapes like ditalini, small shells, or orzo work well because they cook quickly and blend beautifully with the beans and greens.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just add all ingredients except the spinach and pasta early on, and add those in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

How can I add more protein?

Besides the beans, you can toss in cooked chicken, sausage, or even some grated cheese to boost protein content.

Final Thoughts

This cozy White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a joyful discovery—you get nourishing ingredients, simple preparation, and a bowl full of heartwarming flavor all at once. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s sure to become a dish you reach for again and again on cooler days or whenever you crave something wholesome and tasty.

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