Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

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Creamy, hearty, and packed with nourishing ingredients, Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is the kind of comfort food that wraps you up like a cozy blanket. Whether you’re battling chilly weather or just craving something wholesome and satisfying, this soup delivers every time. The creamy texture from the beans, the slight bite from the greens, and the flavorful depth from tomatoes and garlic make it a complete and flavorful experience.

It’s not just delicious—it’s practical too. This soup comes together with pantry staples, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meal plans. Plus, it’s vegetarian, loaded with fiber and protein, and easily adaptable to vegan or gluten-free diets. A bowl of this with crusty bread on the side is a meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love This Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

• Fast and filling: It takes less than 30 minutes to make from scratch.
• Made with pantry staples: Beans, broth, canned tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
• Nutritious: High in plant-based protein and fiber.
• Comfort food approved: Creamy texture and rich flavor make it feel indulgent.
• Customizable: Add pasta, sausage, or swap in kale or Swiss chard.

What Kind of Beans Should I Use for Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup?

Cannellini beans are the star of the show. Their creamy texture and mild flavor absorb the seasonings beautifully and balance well with the earthy greens. If you don’t have cannellini beans, you can substitute with Great Northern or navy beans. Just make sure they’re fully cooked and rinsed if using canned beans. For a thicker soup, mash a portion of the beans or blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in.

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Ingredients for the Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

Each ingredient in this soup plays a special role in creating a balance of taste and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables.
• Onion: Brings a sweet, savory base flavor.
• Garlic: Enhances the aroma and adds depth.
• Carrots: Provide subtle sweetness and texture.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Introduce acidity and umami.
• Vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
• Cannellini beans: Creamy, protein-rich, and satisfying.
• Fresh spinach: Adds a pop of green and boosts the nutritional profile.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balance.
• Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds richness and a finishing touch.

How To Make the Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and carrots, and sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Add Beans and Simmer

Stir in the cannellini beans. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld. If you like a thicker consistency, mash a few beans or blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in.

Step 4: Stir in Spinach

Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and cracked black pepper if desired. Serve hot with toasted bread or croutons.

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Serving and Storing Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

This hearty soup makes about 4 generous servings, perfect for a family dinner or a week of comforting lunches. Serve it piping hot in bowls with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a side of crusty toasted bread for dipping.

To store, let the soup cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making leftovers even tastier. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What to Serve With Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup?

Crusty Garlic Bread

The crispy edges and buttery garlic flavor pair beautifully with the creamy texture of the soup.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A golden, melty sandwich takes this cozy meal to another level.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a bright contrast.

Roasted Vegetables

Oven-roasted carrots, zucchini, or sweet potatoes make a colorful, nutritious side.

Polenta Fries

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—these are a fun and filling addition.

Bruschetta

Toasted baguette topped with fresh tomato, garlic, and basil works as a light, complementary starter.

Olive Tapenade

Serve with crostini for a Mediterranean-inspired touch.

Baked Sweet Potato

A warm, slightly sweet counterbalance to the savory soup.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried cannellini beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Just soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the soup. This adds more prep time but enhances flavor and texture.

2. Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based version. Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan as well.

3. Can I freeze Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before storing in airtight freezer containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What other greens can I use besides spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens are all great substitutes. Just keep in mind that they take a bit longer to wilt compared to spinach.

5. How can I make this soup creamier?
Blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in for a thicker texture, or add a splash of plant-based cream or full-fat coconut milk for extra richness.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use kale instead of spinach? Did you try adding pasta or sausage?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

For more comforting and healthy recipe inspiration, check out my Life With Livia Pinterest page.

Conclusion

Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is a wholesome, hearty, and deeply satisfying dish you’ll come back to again and again. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and brimming with feel-good ingredients. Whether you’re prepping ahead or throwing it together on a busy night, this soup is a nourishing choice packed with flavor and comfort.

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