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 (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup Bowl, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. The bright flavor of lemon combined with the creaminess of the beans creates a delightful balance that warms you from the inside out. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and packed with nutrients, making it perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Each spoonful is a hug in a bowl, and I can't resist sharing it with family and friends during cozy gatherings.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-18T12:16:16.695Z

When I first experimented with white beans in soup, I was taken aback by how naturally creamy they were without needing dairy. This soup quickly became a staple in my kitchen as I played with various flavor profiles before settling on lemon for a refreshing twist. Using fresh lemon zest adds a bright and zesty note that elevates the entire dish.

The consistency is velvety, thanks to blending part of the mixture, and it truly feels indulgent while being incredibly healthy. For an extra touch, I love garnishing with fresh herbs, which enhance both the flavor and presentation.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright, zesty lemon flavor that awakens your taste buds
Smooth and creamy texture without any dairy
Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The cornerstone of this Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup is the white beans themselves. Their inherent creaminess adds a velvety texture to the soup, making it feel rich and satisfying without the use of dairy. I prefer using canned beans for convenience, but if you're feeling ambitious, soaking and cooking dried beans can enhance their flavor and texture even more. Just remember that dried beans require a longer cooking time and should be soaked overnight.

Lemon is more than just a flavor enhancer in this soup; it also adds brightness and acidity that balances the creamy beans. When zesting the lemon, be sure to only take the bright yellow skin and avoid the bitter white pith underneath. The juice should be added to taste, as the intensity can vary between lemons. Adjust the acidity based on your preference—some may enjoy a more pronounced lemon flavor.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right consistency is crucial in this soup. After blending part of the mixture, you want a creamy soup that retains some texture from the whole beans. If you find that the blended soup is too thick, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes can help thicken it up while concentrating the flavors.

Using an immersion blender is my preferred method for blending the soup. It’s straightforward and reduces the risk of spills compared to transferring soup to a countertop blender. However, if you opt for a regular blender, make sure to let the soup cool slightly and blend in small batches to avoid steam buildup, which can lead to unexpected messes.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup

2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté 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 gentle simmer.

Blend for Creaminess

Remove about half of the soup and carefully blend until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Return the blended soup to the pot.

Add Lemon

Stir in the lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Let it simmer for 5 more minutes for flavors to meld.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving warm.

Pro Tips

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of fresh spinach to the soup before blending.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Lemon White Bean Soup can be served on its own as a light meal, but it's also excellent paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Consider adding a sprinkle of croutons or a drizzle of olive oil on top for added texture. You could also serve it over a bed of cooked grains like quinoa or rice for a heartier option.

For gatherings, offering different toppings can make the experience interactive. Set out options like diced avocado, crispy bacon, or a dollop of sour cream, allowing guests to customize their bowls as they wish. This not only enhances the soup but also makes it more appealing to a variety of palates.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it into individual servings for easy reheating later. Just be sure to leave a little space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. If the soup thickens too much during storage, you can easily return it to your desired consistency by adding a splash of vegetable broth or water while heating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just reheat over medium heat before serving.

→ Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Carrots, celery, or spinach can be great additions to enhance both nutrition and flavor.