Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl

Name: Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love making this creamy lemon white bean soup bowl when I need something comforting yet bright. The combination of hearty white beans and zesty lemon creates a deliciously rich flavor that's perfect for any season. Plus, this recipe is super simple and comes together in just a short amount of time. With each spoonful, you get a delightful creaminess complemented by the invigorating citrus, making it an instant favorite in our household. It's the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening or for a light lunch.

Created by

Chloe Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-18T11:34:12.729Z

When I first made this soup, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a robust and satisfying dish. The creamy texture is achieved by blending the cooked beans into a smooth base, which gives the soup its comforting feel. Adding lemon zest and juice at the end really brightens the entire dish, creating a perfect balance.

I often serve this soup with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, which adds a lovely finishing touch. It’s a great dish to make ahead of time, as the flavors only deepen after a day in the fridge!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that is incredibly comforting
Bright lemon flavor that lifts the entire dish
Packed with protein and fiber from the white beans
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Key Techniques for Perfect Creaminess

One crucial technique in achieving the desired creaminess in this soup is the blending process. Using an immersion blender is ideal, as it offers control over the texture. For a beautifully smooth consistency, blend the soup until it resembles a velvety puree. If you enjoy a bit of texture, consider blending only half and leaving the other half intact, allowing you to savor the hearty beans along with the creamy base.

Another way to enhance creaminess is to incorporate a dash of heavy cream or coconut milk after blending, particularly if you desire an ultra-rich finish. Start with a tablespoon and adjust to your taste, stirring it in gently over low heat until just warmed through. This addition complements the bright lemon flavor without overwhelming it, creating a luscious mouthfeel.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

The white beans in this recipe not only provide protein and fiber but also serve as a canvas for the delicious flavors of lemon and garlic. While cannellini or great northern beans are recommended, you can successfully substitute them with navy beans if that’s what you have on hand. Just ensure they're well rinsed to reduce any excess sodium from the canning process.

Lemon is a star ingredient that brings vibrancy to the dish. If fresh lemons aren't available, you can use bottled lemon juice as an alternative; however, fresh zest is vital for capturing that zingy citrus essence. If you're looking to experiment, adding a splash of white wine during the sautéing step can deepen the flavor profile without overpowering the lemon.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your creamy lemon white bean soup bowl.

Main Ingredients

2 cans of white beans (such as cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add your favorite greens or protein for an added boost!

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add Beans and Broth

Add the drained white beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup and leave the rest as is.

Season and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

This soup is delicious on its own or with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of coconut milk or cream before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy lemon white bean soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a double batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to deepen over time, making it perfect for reheating and enjoying later in the week. When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.

If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so before adding the lemon juice and zest. Portion the unseasoned soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, then stir in the lemon juice and zest just before serving for that fresh zing.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your creamy lemon white bean soup with rustic bread or crusty rolls for a fulfilling meal. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the soup. If you want to elevate your meal further, consider topping the soup with toasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a lovely crunch and aroma.

For a heartier version, serve the soup over a bed of quinoa or brown rice, turning it into a complete meal. Adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving can enhance the depth of flavor, providing a beautiful finish that invites everyone to dig in!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?

Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook the dried beans beforehand. This may add additional time to your preparation.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.