Name: White Bean Pesto Soup: 5 Comforting Steps to Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1/2 cup prepared pesto; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

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White Bean Pesto Soup is a creamy and comforting dish that has become a staple in my kitchen. This easy-to-make soup brings together tender white beans, fragrant pesto, and aromatic spices, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This White Bean Pesto Soup

This vegetarian white bean soup with pesto is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick to prepare, making it a quick white bean pesto soup.
Rich in fiber and protein, promoting a healthy diet.
Comforting and warm, ideal for cold weather.
Versatile and can be made gluten-free.
Perfect for meal prep, allowing for leftovers that taste even better.
Loaded with healthy ingredients like garlic and spinach, enhancing the flavor.
Perfectly complements a variety of sides, making it a complete meal.

Ingredients for White Bean Pesto Soup

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (15-ounce) cans white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup prepared pesto
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

How to Make White Bean Pesto Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until translucent.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the drained and rinsed white beans, chicken or vegetable broth, pesto, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the soup has thickened slightly.
Step 6: Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve the White Bean Pesto Soup warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).

Pro Tips for the Best White Bean Pesto Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use homemade pesto for an even more flavorful soup.
For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup and mix it back in.
Feel free to add in vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Best Ways to Serve White Bean Pesto Soup

This soup pairs wonderfully with:

Crispy bread or garlic toast for dipping.
A fresh green salad to balance the flavors.
As a starter in a multi-course Italian meal.

How to Store and Reheat White Bean Pesto Soup

For homemade white bean pesto soup leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. This makes for a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About White Bean Pesto Soup

What’s the secret to perfect White Bean Pesto Soup?

The key to perfect pesto soup with white beans lies in using high-quality pesto and fresh ingredients. This combination ensures that the flavors are vibrant and well-balanced, creating a comforting white bean pesto blend that everyone will love.

Can I make White Bean Pesto Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This easy white bean soup recipe actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

How do I avoid common mistakes with White Bean Pesto Soup?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure not to overcook the beans and adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding salt slowly and tasting frequently can help you find that perfect balance.

Variations of White Bean Pesto Soup You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

For a creamy white bean pesto recipe, blend in some heavy cream.
Add roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra herbal note.
Use different types of beans for a unique twist, like cannellini or chickpeas.

For more delicious soup recipes, check out Creamy Potato Soup or Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try White Bean Soup for a hearty meal. You can also explore Last Recipes for more inspiration.

For more information on the health benefits of beans, you can visit Healthline.

White Bean Pesto Soup: 5 Comforting Steps to Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This creamy and comforting White Bean Pesto Soup is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch.

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until translucent.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add the drained and rinsed white beans, chicken or vegetable broth, pesto, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded and the soup has thickened slightly.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve the White Bean Pesto Soup warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).