White Bean Pesto Soup

This white bean pesto soup is not just a meal; it’s a bowl of comfort filled with vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a cozy treat on weekends, this soup showcases fresh herbs beautifully while being incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of creamy cannellini beans and homemade pesto makes this dish both nourishing and satisfying, ensuring that every spoonful is packed with goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With only 10 minutes of prep time, enjoying a homemade soup has never been easier.
• Flavorful and Fresh – The blend of fresh herbs and garlic creates an aromatic experience that delights the senses.
• Nutrient-Rich – Packed with protein from cannellini beans and vitamins from spinach, this soup is wholesome and filling.
• Versatile Serving Options – Serve it as an appetizer or pair it with crusty bread for a hearty main dish.
• Customizable Ingredients – Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful white bean pesto soup, you will need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender or food processor – Essential for creating the smooth and creamy pesto that elevates this soup’s flavor.
• Large pot – Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board – A sturdy surface making chopping vegetables safe and efficient.

Ingredients

This white bean pesto soup is the perfect way to enjoy all those amazing green herbs in season! It’s also super nourishing, comforting, and a breeze to make.

For the Pesto

• 2 cups fresh basil
• 1 cup fresh parsley
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup blanched almonds
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 3-4 celery stalks (finely diced)
• 2 large garlic cloves (finely chopped)
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
• 3 cans (14 oz / 400 g) cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to Make White Bean Pesto Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil, fresh parsley, garlic cloves, blanched almonds, nutritional yeast, and extra virgin olive oil.
2. Blend until completely smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and celery; cook for 5-6 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

1. Stir in the garlic and red chili flakes; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Beans and Stock

1. Add the drained cannellini beans to the pot.
2. Pour in the vegetable stock; bring to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes allowing flavors to meld.

Step 6: Incorporate Pesto and Spinach

1. Stir in the pesto until completely melted.
2. Add spinach; simmer for 1-2 more minutes until wilted.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
2. Serve immediately for maximum flavor enjoyment!

How to Serve White Bean Pesto Soup

Serving white bean pesto soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This flavorful soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings, making every bowl a unique delight.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying texture to your meal.

Topped with Extra Pesto

• Drizzling some additional pesto on top just before serving adds an extra burst of flavor and freshness.

With Grated Parmesan Alternative

• For those who enjoy cheese, consider using a plant-based grated cheese or nutritional yeast as a topping for added creaminess.

Served with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh basil or parsley not only enhances the presentation but also intensifies the herbal notes in the soup.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pairing the soup with a light salad, such as arugula or mixed greens, offers a refreshing balance to the hearty flavors.

Squeeze of Lemon Juice

• A splash of lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds a zesty contrast to the creamy soup base.

How to Perfect White Bean Pesto Soup

To create the best white bean pesto soup, follow these helpful tips. Each suggestion can elevate your dish and ensure delicious results every time.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley are key for vibrant flavor. Always opt for fresh over dried when making pesto.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more vegetable stock until you reach your desired consistency.
• Blend Thoroughly: Ensuring your pesto is blended until smooth will create a creamy texture that melds beautifully with the beans.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies like zucchini or carrots can enhance nutrition and flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your soup while cooking to adjust seasonings and ensure it meets your flavor preferences.
• Store Properly: If making ahead, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

Best Side Dishes for White Bean Pesto Soup

Complementing your white bean pesto soup with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   This classic choice is perfect for scooping up every last drop of soup and offers an irresistible garlic aroma.
2. Mixed Green Salad
   A simple salad made with mixed greens dressed lightly keeps things fresh and balances out the richness of the soup.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Roasted bell peppers filled with quinoa and vegetables make for a nutritious side that pairs well with the flavors of the soup.
4. Quinoa Pilaf
   Fluffy quinoa cooked with herbs provides a hearty yet healthy accompaniment that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and variety, bringing caramelized sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory soup.
6. Crispy Polenta Cakes
   These cakes are crunchy on the outside but creamy inside, making them an exciting textural addition next to your soup.
7. Chickpea Salad
   A protein-packed chickpea salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and elevates your meal’s nutrition profile.
8. Savory Scones
   Cheesy or herb scones provide a delightful twist alongside your bowl of soup, offering savory goodness in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making white bean pesto soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the soaking step: Not rinsing the beans can lead to a gritty texture. Always drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly before use.
• Overcooking the pesto: Adding the pesto too early can diminish its fresh flavor. Stir it in just before serving to maintain its vibrancy.
• Using stale nuts: Old almonds can ruin your pesto’s taste. Always use fresh nuts for the best flavor in your white bean pesto soup.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always season to your preference after adding all ingredients.
• Not blending enough: Leaving chunks in your pesto can affect the smoothness of your soup. Blend until completely smooth for a creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will last for 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing White Bean Pesto Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating White Bean Pesto Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot, around 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making white bean pesto soup:

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! This white bean pesto soup is naturally vegan-friendly since it uses plant-based ingredients like nutritional yeast instead of cheese.

How do I customize my white bean pesto soup?

Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini or carrots. You can also swap in different herbs according to your taste preferences.

What is the best way to store leftover white bean pesto soup?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use other types of beans?

Absolutely! While cannellini beans are recommended for their creamy texture, you can substitute them with navy or great northern beans if preferred.

Final Thoughts

This white bean pesto soup is not only nourishing but also versatile. You can easily customize it with seasonal vegetables or different herbs. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or as part of your meal prep. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting flavors!