Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 large lemon, juiced and zested; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl, especially on chilly days when I crave something comforting yet refreshing. The vibrant flavors of lemon combined with the creamy texture of white beans create a delightful bowl that is not only satisfying but also nutritious. As I prepared it, I discovered how simple ingredients can come together to create a hearty meal that's perfect for both lunch and dinner. Every spoonful is a burst of flavor that warms you from the inside out.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:10:11.831Z

When I first tried this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup, I was blown away by how quick and easy it was. I tossed together simple ingredients like garlic, lemon, and white beans, and the result was a soup that felt gourmet yet was ready in under 40 minutes. To elevate the flavor, I recommend using fresh herbs and a good quality broth.

This soup has become a staple in my kitchen, especially as a light meal or starter. The trick for creaminess is blending half of the beans into a smooth puree and leaving the other half whole for texture. It’s a delightful twist that brings both warmth and brightness to the table!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus notes balanced with rich, creamy beans
Quick and easy preparation perfect for busy weeknights
Nutritious and hearty enough to be a complete meal

      

Perfecting the Texture

When blending the soup, using an immersion blender can help achieve that desirable creamy consistency without the need for transferring hot liquids to a traditional blender. For a more rustic texture, I often leave some of the beans whole, which adds nice bites throughout the soup. If you find that your soup is too thick, simply add a little extra vegetable broth to reach your preferred consistency.

To ensure an even creaminess, make sure the beans are adequately drained and rinsed before adding them to the pot. This step not only reduces excess sodium from the canned beans but also prevents any grainy texture in your soup. If you prefer a plant-based creaminess, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream during the blending stage for enhanced richness.

Citrus Zest for Brightness

The lemon juice and zest are essential in elevating the overall flavor profile of this soup. The zest adds a vibrant aroma and intense citrus flavor that balances the creaminess of the beans. To get the most zest, use a microplane and avoid the white pith underneath, which can introduce bitterness. A good rule of thumb is to always zest the lemon before juicing it to make the process easier.

For a twist on the traditional lemon flavor, consider experimenting with other citrus fruits like lime or grapefruit. These can impart a different characteristic to the soup while retaining that refreshing quality. Just be mindful of the acidity; you might want to adjust the quantity based on how tangy you like your soups.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful soup:

Ingredients

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

These simple ingredients work wonders together!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your creamy soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth, adding half of the drained white beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Blend Until Creamy

Once simmering, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. For a chunkier texture, you can blend just half of it.

Add Lemon

Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and the remaining beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for another 10 minutes.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy warm!

Enjoy your deliciously creamy soup!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, try roasting the garlic before adding it to the soup. This will enhance its sweetness and richness.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week, and it holds up well in the fridge for up to five days. Just make sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to spoilage.

If you plan to store the soup for a longer duration, consider freezing it. The soup can be frozen for up to three months. I recommend portioning it into individual servings to make reheating easier. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

While the soup is delightful on its own, pairing it with a slice of crusty artisan bread or a hearty salad can transform your meal into something special. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or red pepper flakes can add a welcome kick of heat to balance the creaminess, making each serving a little different from the last.

For a more substantial dish, you could serve the soup over quinoa or brown rice, making it nutty and filling. A dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil on top adds a nice finishing touch, providing a richness that complements the zesty flavors perfectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can use frozen beans. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

The soup lasts up to 3 days in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Chopped carrots, celery, or spinach would be great additions.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this creamy lemon white bean soup is completely vegan and dairy-free.