Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cups vegetable broth; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh thyme, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Inspiration

I love making this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. The combination of creamy white beans, zesty lemon, and fresh herbs makes for a delightful bowl that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can whip up a hearty soup that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s become a go-to recipe in my kitchen, and I can’t wait for you to try it too.

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:17:34.377Z

I had always loved the creamy texture of white beans, but it wasn't until I added lemon that I truly fell in love with this soup. The bright acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness, making each spoonful feel light yet satisfying. One tip I discovered is to blend a portion of the soup before serving; this creates a velvety consistency that enhances the overall experience.

In experimenting with different herbs, I found that a sprinkle of fresh thyme at the end adds a fragrant touch that elevates the soup even further. It's a simple detail that makes a big difference! I've served this to friends, and it's always met with compliments and requests for seconds.

Reasons You'll Adore This Recipe
Zesty lemon flavor paired with creamy beans
Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients
Perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner

The Role of White Beans

White beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, are the star of this soup. Their creamy texture adds body and richness, making the soup feel hearty without the need for cream. When simmered with the aromatic vegetables, these beans absorb flavors beautifully and create a satisfying mouthfeel. Make sure to rinse them well to remove any excess sodium or preservatives, which can sometimes linger in canned products.

If you prefer a more pronounced bean flavor, consider using dried beans instead of canned. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender. This method takes a bit more time but allows you to control the texture and taste, resulting in a soup that feels homemade in every sense.

Perfecting the Lemon Balance

The zest and juice of the lemon are crucial for achieving a vibrant, fresh flavor that cuts through the creaminess of the beans. When adding lemon juice, start with half and taste before adding more, especially if you’re unsure about your lemon’s acidity level. Overdoing it can lead to an overly tart soup. I love using a microplane for zesting to capture only the fragrant outer skin without the bitter pith.

For a twist on flavor, try adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions. This will add depth and a subtle acidity that complements the lemon beautifully. Alternatively, fresh herbs like dill or parsley can provide a different aromatic profile if you prefer something other than thyme.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup is excellent for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the soup, as it may thicken as it sits. For an extra creamy texture, stir in a dollop of yogurt or sour cream just before serving. This not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a refreshing tang that pairs beautifully with the lemon.

If you want to freeze the soup, I recommend doing so without the added lemon juice and zest. Freeze it in portioned airtight containers for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat gently, and then mix in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors just before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious soup:

Ingredients

2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups vegetable broth
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh thyme, for garnish

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the soup:

Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Add Beans and Broth

Add the drained white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you desire a chunkier texture, reserve some beans before blending and stir them in afterward.

Finish with Lemon

Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat for an additional minute and then remove from heat.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Enjoy your delicious, creamy soup!

Enjoy this soup hot, and pair it with crusty bread for a wonderful meal!

Pro Tips

For a little extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving. You can also top it with crispy croutons for added texture.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to customize this soup by incorporating different vegetables. Chopped carrots or celery can be added when sautéing the onions for more layers of flavor and nutrition. For a touch of green, stir in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. These leafy greens will wilt quickly, adding a vibrant color and a slight bitterness that complements the soup's creaminess.

If you're looking for a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon as a topping. These additions can make the soup more filling and add a savory, smoky contrast to the bright flavors of lemon.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your soup too thick, simply add more vegetable broth during the blending phase. The consistency should be creamy yet pourable, allowing for a lovely presentation. Conversely, if it’s too thin, blending more effectively can help thicken it up, as the beans will break down and add creaminess.

For an unexpected bitter taste, this could stem from improperly sautéed garlic. Always keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't burn, as burnt garlic can lend an undesirable sharpness to your soup. If that happens, adjust with a little sugar to mellow out the bitterness.

Flavor Enhancements

Adding spices can elevate the flavors in your soup significantly. A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne can introduce an interesting kick. Spice blends like Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence can also add depth, making each bowl resonate more with aromatic warmth.

For a luxurious finish, consider topping your soup with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful visual element, making your serving bowls even more appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand to achieve the right texture.

→ What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version or even water with added seasonings.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as long as you ensure you're using vegetable broth and not adding any dairy.

→ What other herbs can I use?

Fresh parsley or dill can also work wonderfully with this soup!