Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, diced; 1 stalk celery, diced; 1 lemon (zest and juice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme and parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore the flavors of this creamy lemon white bean soup bowl. It combines the smooth texture of white beans with a zesty lemon kick that brightens the palate. Not only is this soup rich in flavor, but it's also incredibly easy to make – perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a fresh lunch. The creamy base is complemented by fresh herbs, making each spoonful an uplifting experience. Give this recipe a try, and I'm sure you'll find it unforgettably delicious and satisfying!

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:04:22.611Z

When I first decided to make this creamy lemon white bean soup, I wanted something light yet filling. I experimented with different herbs and found that fresh thyme and parsley added a delightful aroma. The creamy base comes from blending the beans with vegetable broth, which gives a velvety texture without the need for heavy cream.

One lesson I learned is to balance the acidity from the lemon with a touch of sweetness, which really elevates the dish. Serve it hot and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil for an added layer of flavor that makes this soup a standout meal.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon flavor that brightens up cold days
Creamy texture enriched with nutritious white beans
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The heart of this creamy lemon white bean soup is, of course, the white beans. They not only provide a creamy texture but also pack in plant-based protein and fiber, making the soup hearty and nutritious. I recommend using cannellini or great northern beans for their smoothness. If using dried beans, soak them overnight and cook until tender before adding them to the soup, which can take about 1-1.5 hours.

Fresh herbs play a crucial role in elevating the flavors in this dish. Thyme and parsley add aromatic notes that contrast beautifully with the bright acidity of the lemon. To maximize flavor, use fresh herbs whenever possible. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh ones will give that vibrant essence that perfectly complements the creamy base.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

While sautéing the vegetables, it's important to cook them just until they're softened but not browned, about 5-7 minutes. This allows the natural sugars in the onions and carrots to develop without becoming caramelized, which could overwhelm the delicate balance of flavors in the soup. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.

When blending the soup, using an immersion blender is convenient, especially since you can blend directly in the pot. If you opt for a standard blender, remember to let the soup cool slightly and blend in small batches to avoid steam buildup, which can cause spills. A good indicator that the soup is ready to blend is when it has thickened slightly and is simmering gently, usually around the 20-minute mark.

Ingredients

To create this delightful soup, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup

1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 stalk celery, diced
1 lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme and parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your creamy lemon white bean soup:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Beans and Broth

Add the rinsed white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer it to a regular blender in batches.

Add Lemon

Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh thyme and parsley before serving.

Your creamy lemon white bean soup is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a more robust flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or some crushed red pepper flakes for heat. You can also substitute fresh beans if you prefer, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup is an excellent candidate for meal prep! It can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without scorching the bottom.

If you want to store the soup for longer, consider freezing it in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and if it appears thicker than desired, just stir in a little broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy lemon white bean soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a crusty artisan bread for dipping to soak up all that lovely broth. You could also enjoy it with a fresh green salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette, which complements the soup’s creamy richness perfectly.

For an extra flourish, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche before garnishing with herbs. This adds a creamy tang that enhances the soup’s flavor and creates a lovely contrast to the warm soup. Additionally, adding a sprinkle of chili flakes can introduce a delightful kick if you enjoy a little heat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! It freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled down before placing it in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products.