White Bean, Spinach & Pesto Soup Recipe

This hearty white bean, spinach, and pesto soup is a marvelous blend of flavors, making it the perfect comfort food. A warm bowl of this soup can be a satisfying meal in itself, with the inclusion of white beans providing a good dose of protein. The addition of fresh spinach and pesto gives it a delightful aroma and a burst of flavor that will leave you craving for more.

Photos of White Bean, Spinach & Pesto Soup Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this soup are pretty standard and can be found in your pantry, you should take note of the pesto. Pesto is a sauce originating from Italy and is typically made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan cheese and olive oil. You can easily find pesto in the condiment section of most supermarkets, but if it's unavailable, it can be replaced with a mixture of fresh basil and olive oil.

White Bean, Spinach and Pesto Soup Ingredients

Chicken stock: A flavorful liquid that forms the base of our soup, it's made by simmering chicken bones or meat with vegetables and herbs.

White beans: They are high in protein and fiber, adding a creamy texture to the soup.

Spinach: A nutrient-dense leafy green that adds color and vitamins to our soup.

Pesto: Gives the soup an Italian touch, adding a herby and nutty flavor.

Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that adds a tangy and salty flavor.

One reader, Candace Bethea says:

This white bean, spinach, and pesto soup is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The pesto adds a burst of freshness, and the creamy white beans create a hearty texture. It's a comforting and nutritious meal that's perfect for any day. Highly recommend trying it!

Candace Bethea

Techniques Required for Making Delicious Soup

How to prepare the white bean, spinach, and pesto soup: A step-by-step guide on preparing the soup, including the process of boiling the chicken stock and white beans, and adding the spinach and pesto.

How to season to taste with salt and pepper: Instructions on how to properly season the soup with salt and freshly-ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.

How to top the soup with freshly-grated parmesan cheese: A guide on how to generously top the soup with freshly-grated parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.

How To Make White Bean, Spinach & Pesto Soup

Made with fresh spinach and white beans, this flavorful pesto soup is such a hug-in-a-bowl on cold nights! Top off with a generous amount of parmesan.

Preparation: 3 minutes

Cooking: 5 minutes

Total: 8 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3cupschicken stock,or vegetable stock
19ozwhite beans,(2 cans)
2cupsfresh spinach,loosely-packed
2tbsppesto,homemade or store-bought
Salt and freshly-ground black pepper,to taste
Parmesan cheese,freshly-grated, for serving

Instructions

Add chicken stock and white beans to a medium-sized saucepan, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce heat to low, and stir in the fresh spinach and pesto until the spinach has wilted. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Ladle soup into bowls, and top generously with freshly-grated Parmesan cheese.

Recipe Notes

Feel free to also add in a few tablespoons of freshly-squeezed lemon juice to this broth, and/or some cooked chicken or other protein to the soup.

Nutrition

Calories: 544.94kcal
Fat: 6.04g
Saturated Fat: 1.24g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.90g
Carbohydrates: 88.73g
Fiber: 20.94g
Sugar: 5.75g
Protein: 36.85g
Cholesterol: 6.07mg
Sodium: 786.38mg
Calcium: 357.87mg
Potassium: 2689.94mg
Iron: 15.06mg
Vitamin A: 72.15µg
Vitamin C: 4.58mg

Essential Technique for Enhancing Soup Flavor

To ensure the spinach retains its vibrant green color and doesn't overcook, add it to the soup just before serving. This will also help to preserve its nutrients. For the pesto, you can either use store-bought or make your own for a fresher taste. If you choose to make your own, remember to add a bit of lemon juice to prevent it from oxidizing and turning brown.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing White Bean, Spinach and Pesto Soup

Plan ahead: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed to avoid last-minute searches.

Use canned beans: Opt for canned white beans to save time on soaking and cooking dried beans.

Pre-washed spinach: Purchase pre-washed spinach to skip the step of washing and drying the leaves.

Store-bought pesto: Consider using store-bought pesto for convenience, instead of making it from scratch.

Multi-task: While the soup is simmering, use that time to prepare the garnishes or clean up the kitchen to save time later.

Pre-grated parmesan: Utilize pre-grated parmesan cheese to eliminate the need for grating it yourself.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a single pot for the entire cooking process to minimize cleanup time.

Leftovers for later: Make a larger batch and store the extra soup in the freezer for quick and easy meals in the future.

Substitute Ingredients For White Bean, Spinach & Pesto Soup Recipe

chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can provide a similar depth of flavor and richness to the soup without the use of chicken stock.
white beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable replacement for white beans in the soup.
fresh spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for spinach, adding a hearty and nutritious element to the soup.
pesto - Substitute with homemade basil paste: A homemade basil paste can be used as a substitute for pesto, providing a fresh and vibrant flavor to the soup.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for parmesan, offering a similar salty and nutty flavor to the soup.

Presenting White Bean, Spinach and Pesto Soup

Elevate the soup bowl: Present the soup in a shallow, wide bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup. This allows the pesto and parmesan to be elegantly displayed on top.
Garnish with a drizzle of pesto: Use a small squeeze bottle to create a beautiful swirl of pesto on top of the soup. This adds a pop of color and a burst of flavor to the presentation.
Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan: Finely grate parmesan over the soup just before serving to add a touch of sophistication and a rich, savory aroma to the dish.
Add a touch of elegance with a sprig of fresh basil: Place a small, vibrant sprig of fresh basil on top of the soup to add a touch of freshness and a visually appealing element to the presentation.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the soup with a slice of crusty, artisanal bread, beautifully presented on the side to complement the flavors and textures of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Soup

Saucepan: A deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking soups, stews, and sauces.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl for serving soups and stews.
Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged perforations for shredding or grating cheese and vegetables.
Knife: A tool used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for cooking and baking.
Stove: A cooking appliance with burners or a hotplate for heating food.
Grater: A kitchen utensil with sharp-edged perforations for shredding or grating cheese and vegetables.
Bowls: Used for mixing, holding ingredients, and serving.

Storing and Freezing Leftover Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the formation of condensation, which can lead to spoilage and freezer burn.
To store the soup in the refrigerator, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider portioning it into individual serving sizes. This will allow you to thaw only what you need for future meals.
Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags to store the soup in the freezer. Make sure to leave some headspace at the top of the container to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents to help you keep track of your frozen soups.
When freezing, lay the bags flat in the freezer to save space and ensure even freezing. Once frozen, you can stack them vertically to optimize storage space.
The white bean, spinach, and pesto soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
To thaw the frozen soup, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw it in the microwave using the defrost setting.
When reheating the soup, make sure to bring it to a full boil to ensure it's heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching and ensure even heating.
If the soup appears to have separated or lost some of its texture after thawing, use an immersion blender or whisk to restore its consistency before reheating.

How To Reheat Leftover Soup

Stovetop method: pour the leftover white bean, spinach and pesto soup into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method is best for preserving the texture of the spinach and ensuring that the pesto remains well-incorporated.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Heat the soup in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the soup, as this can cause the spinach to become overcooked and the pesto to separate.
Slow cooker method: if you have a larger portion of leftover soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Pour the soup into the slow cooker, cover it with the lid, and heat it on low for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches your desired temperature. This method is great for keeping the soup warm for an extended period, making it perfect for serving at a party or gathering.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the leftover soup into an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup reaches your desired temperature. This method is ideal if you want to reheat the soup while keeping it covered, which can help prevent the spinach from drying out.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the soup well before serving to ensure that the pesto is evenly distributed throughout. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, you can thin it out by adding a small amount of chicken stock or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Interesting Fact About White Bean, Spinach and Pesto Soup

White bean, spinach and pesto soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. It's a great way to incorporate leafy greens and legumes into your diet, providing a healthy and satisfying meal.

Is Making This Soup Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

This white bean, spinach and pesto soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. White beans are an affordable source of protein and fiber, while spinach and pesto add depth of flavor without breaking the bank. With a rating of 8/10, this soup offers great value for money. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it a budget-friendly and nutritious option.

Is This Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This white bean, spinach, and pesto soup recipe is a nutritious and wholesome choice. The combination of protein-rich white beans, nutrient-dense spinach, and flavorful pesto creates a balanced meal. White beans are an excellent source of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. Spinach is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron and calcium. The addition of pesto provides healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, which are beneficial for heart health. However, the recipe relies on chicken stock, which may be high in sodium, and the generous topping of Parmesan cheese adds additional saturated fat and calories.

To enhance the nutritional value of this soup:

Opt for low-sodium or homemade chicken stock to reduce the overall salt content
Increase the amount of spinach or add other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard for an extra boost of vitamins and minerals
Use a lighter hand when grating Parmesan cheese, or choose a low-fat alternative
Incorporate additional vegetables, such as diced carrots or celery, to increase the fiber content and add depth of flavor
Consider using whole grain bread or crackers as an accompaniment to provide complex carbohydrates and additional fiber

Editor's Opinion on This Flavorful Soup Recipe

This white bean, spinach, and pesto soup recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy white beans, vibrant spinach, and aromatic pesto create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and nutritious. The use of chicken stock adds depth to the soup, while the addition of parmesan cheese provides a savory finish. It's a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner with friends. The recipe's ease of preparation makes it a versatile option for any occasion.

Enhance Your White Bean, Spinach & Pesto Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic breadsticks with a sprinkle of parmesan

Mixed Green Salad: Fresh mixed green salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette

Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medley of roasted vegetables drizzled with a honey balsamic glaze

Other Delicious Soup Recipes to Try

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a comforting classic that is perfect for a cozy night in. The rich flavors of tomato and basil come together in a velvety smooth texture that will warm you up from the inside out.

Grilled Vegetable Salad: This grilled vegetable salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. The smoky charred vegetables are tossed in a zesty vinaigrette, creating a delicious and satisfying salad.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These mango coconut popsicles are a refreshing and tropical treat that is perfect for a hot summer day. The sweet and juicy mango pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut milk, creating a delightful frozen dessert.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: This lemon garlic roasted chicken is a mouthwatering and savory dish that is perfect for a family dinner. The tender and juicy chicken is infused with the bright flavors of lemon and garlic, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for White Bean, Spinach and Pesto Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. They make the perfect bite-sized appetizer for any gathering.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful skewers feature fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. They are a refreshing and elegant appetizer that is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer fresh berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a light and refreshing parfait that is perfect for a healthy and satisfying sweet treat.

Why trust this White Bean, Spinach & Pesto Soup Recipe:

This recipe is a trustworthy choice because it incorporates fresh ingredients such as white beans and spinach, which are packed with essential nutrients. The addition of pesto brings a burst of flavor, while the use of chicken stock adds depth to the soup. The combination of these high-quality ingredients ensures a delicious and wholesome dish. Moreover, the inclusion of parmesan cheese as a finishing touch enhances the overall taste and texture. This recipe is a testament to our commitment to providing reliable and delightful culinary experiences.

Share your thoughts and experiences with this White Bean, Spinach & Pesto Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried and how it turned out!

FAQ:

What type of white beans should I use for this soup?

You can use any variety of white beans for this soup, such as cannellini beans, navy beans, or great northern beans.

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Yes, you can absolutely use vegetable stock as a substitute for chicken stock to make this soup vegetarian-friendly.

How can I make this soup vegan?

To make this soup vegan, simply replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and ensure that the pesto you use is dairy-free.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach before adding it to the soup.

Is it possible to make the soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.