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White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta

White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta
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A warm and hearty White Bean Spinach Soup with Pasta featuring tender cannellini beans, fresh spinach, and small pasta cooked in a savory vegetable broth. This nutritious and comforting soup is quick to prepare, adaptable to various dietary needs, and perfect for any season, delivering cozy flavor with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

Pasta and Greens

  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, small shells, or orzo)
  • 4 cups fresh spinach leaves

Seasonings and Finish

  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook gently until the onion is softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes, to build the savory base flavor for the soup.
  2. Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed cannellini beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and the beans to warm through for about 5 minutes.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Add the small pasta directly to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is just tender (al dente).
  4. Stir in Spinach: Gently fold in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes, preserving the vibrant green color and fresh taste.
  5. Season and Finish: Taste the soup and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Stir well and remove from heat. Serve warm with optional garnishes.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach for best texture and color. It wilts quickly and adds vibrancy.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta; aim for al dente to avoid mushy texture.
  • Reserve a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen the soup if needed without diluting flavor.
  • Rinse canned beans well to remove excess sodium and prevent bitterness.
  • Sauté onions and garlic first to build rich, deep flavor.
  • This soup freezes best without pasta or freeze pasta separately to maintain texture.
  • Customize protein by adding cooked chicken or turkey if desired.
  • Swap pasta for quinoa or barley for a gluten-free or whole grain alternative.
  • Finish with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for an extra layer of richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: white bean spinach soup, pasta soup, healthy soup, vegetarian soup, vegan soup, quick soup, gluten free soup

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/white-bean-spinach-soup-with-pasta/