Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for dinner or a cozy lunch. Its creamy texture and zesty lemon flavor make it stand out, while the simplicity of the ingredients allows for easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this Greek white bean soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutrient-Dense: This soup is rich in protein and fiber from the white beans, making it a filling and healthy option.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this flavorful soup in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course, a starter, or as part of a larger meal; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy this comforting soup without any dairy ingredients, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Flavorful Twist: The addition of garlic and lemon gives this soup a refreshing taste that elevates its appeal.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the beans and combining all ingredients for even cooking.
• Sharp knife: A must for chopping vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery efficiently.

Ingredients

This recipe features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully to create Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon.

For the Soup

• 250 grams / 8.8 oz cannellini beans (or other small white beans) (soaked in water overnight)
• 6 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1/2 onion (minced)
• 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
• 1 carrot (cut into very thin slices)
• 1 stick of celery (finely chopped)
• 1 lemon zest + juice
• kosher salt + freshly ground pepper
• OPTIONAL: 500 ml vegetable stock

How to Make Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by draining the soaked beans. Rinse them under cold water before adding them to your large pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, heat 6 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
* Add the minced onion and cook until translucent.
* Stir in chopped garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Carrots and Celery

Once the onions are soft:
* Add thinly sliced carrot and finely chopped celery to the pot.
* Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now add the prepared beans along with enough water or optional vegetable stock to cover them by about an inch.
* Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 90 minutes or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon

Once cooked:
* Stir in lemon zest and juice.
Serve hot, garnished with extra olive oil if desired. Enjoy your hearty Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon!

How to Serve Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Serving Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon can enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this delicious and nutritious soup.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the thick soup.
• Garlic Bread: Add a flavorful twist by serving garlic bread alongside the soup for an extra kick.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Garnish with a few thyme sprigs to enhance the aromatic flavors of the soup.

Serve with a Salad

• Greek Salad: A classic Greek salad with feta, olives, and tomatoes complements the soup beautifully.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery contrast.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Finish each bowl with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for richness.
• Herbed Olive Oil: Infuse olive oil with herbs like rosemary or oregano for added flavor.

Accompany with Cheese

• Feta Cheese Crumbles: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for creaminess and a salty bite.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add shavings of Parmesan cheese for a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.

How to Perfect Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Perfecting your Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon involves simple techniques that elevate the dish. Here are some helpful tips.

• Soak Beans Overnight: Soaking your cannellini beans overnight helps them cook evenly and become tender.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic, onions, and vegetables to enhance the overall flavor.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add vegetable stock gradually until desired thickness is achieved.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning as you go; this ensures balanced flavors throughout the cooking process.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to rest for 15 minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

Complementing Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon with side dishes can round out your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Pita Bread: Soft pita bread is perfect for scooping up the thick soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide added nutrition and flavor contrast.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add protein and texture alongside your soup.
4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These flavorful bites pair well with the hearty nature of the soup.
5. Olive Tapenade: A spread of olive tapenade on toasted bread adds a savory touch to your meal.
6. Rice Pilaf: A fragrant rice pilaf can serve as an excellent base under your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon can be simple, but avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to a longer cooking time and uneven texture. Make sure to soak them to achieve the perfect consistency.
• Using Low-Quality Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of your soup. Always choose high-quality oil for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Garlic: Cooking garlic too long can make it bitter. Sauté it just until fragrant for a rich flavor without bitterness.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoning your soup can leave it bland. Taste and adjust with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper as you cook.
• Not Adjusting Consistency: If your soup is too thick, feel free to add vegetable stock or water gradually until you reach your desired thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Use a microwave-safe bowl.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon.

Can I use canned beans instead?

Yes! Canned beans can save time. Just rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

What can I serve with Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize this soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale, or even some diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making it ahead allows flavors to develop more fully. Just store it properly as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

Greek White Bean Soup With Garlic & Lemon is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices according to your preference. This nutritious recipe makes for a comforting meal any day of the week—give it a try!