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 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 large lemon (zest and juice); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl for its refreshing yet comforting character. The combination of creamy white beans and zesty lemon creates a delightful harmony that warms the soul. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug, and the simplicity of the ingredients means it's easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. Plus, this soup is packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for those cozy evenings in. Give it a try, and I'm sure it will become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:04:10.503Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I wanted something that would feel both nourishing and refreshing. I decided to combine the creaminess of white beans with the bright notes of lemon, which completely transformed the dish. The key is to blend half of the beans with the broth to create that velvety texture while leaving some whole for a delightful bite.

The addition of fresh herbs really elevates it, adding depth and an aromatic twist. I learned that using lemon zest, in addition to the juice, amplifies the citrus flavor, and I always make sure to add a generous swirl of olive oil before serving for that extra richness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Zesty lemon brightness balanced with creamy beans
Wholesome ingredients that nourish the body
Quick and simple to prepare for busy weeknights
Perfect for meal prepping for the week ahead

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The beauty of this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a vital role. The white beans are not only creamy but also provide a substantial source of protein and fiber, making this soup filling and satisfying. Opt for high-quality canned beans to save time, but if you prefer, you can prepare dried beans; just remember you'll need to soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup.

Lemon zest and juice are the stars of this recipe, providing a bright acidity that elevates the dish. When zesting the lemon, make sure to avoid the bitter white pith underneath the skin. The zest should be bright yellow and fragrant, which will infuse the soup with a vibrant citrus flavor. Fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and color to the bowl, enhancing both presentation and taste.

Technique Tips for Perfect Texture

To achieve the desired creamy texture, blending part of the soup is crucial. An immersion blender allows you to quickly purée the soup right in the pot without needing to transfer it to an external blender, which minimizes mess. When blending, only purée half to maintain some whole beans for texture; this contrast between smooth and chunky creates a delightful mouthfeel. If using a traditional blender, be cautious of the hot liquid; always vent the lid slightly to prevent steam buildup, and blend in small batches to avoid overflow.

After blending, returning the soup to a gentle simmer before adding the lemon juice allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This is also an excellent time to adjust seasoning; taste the soup and add salt or pepper gradually, starting with a small pinch and adjusting to your preference. Remember, the ingredients can vary in saltiness, especially the broth and beans, so taste-testing is key.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 cups canned white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 large lemon (zest and juice)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather everything and get ready to make this delicious soup!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Beans and Broth

Stir in the white beans, vegetable broth, lemon zest, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, purée half of the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer half to a blender, blend, and return it to the pot.

Finish with Lemon

Stir in lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Enjoy your delicious and creamy lemon soup!

Pro Tips

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping. To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also freeze the soup—just be sure to leave out the lemon juice until you're ready to reheat it. This way, the fresh citrus flavor remains vibrant.

When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid scorching. If it's thickened too much during storage, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. I sometimes add a touch more lemon juice when reheating, as it brightens the flavors beautifully after it’s been stored.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider adding cooked grains like quinoa or farro to each bowl before ladling in the soup. This will add more texture and nutrients, transforming it into a well-rounded dish.

If you want to customize the flavor profile, try adding fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a unique twist. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also provide a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat. Whether you stick to the original recipe or play with variations, this soup is versatile and adapts well to personal tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, just soak and cook them beforehand for the same texture!

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, kale, or carrots for extra nutrition.