Name: Creamy Cannellini Bean Soup for Cozy Nights In
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 can cannellini beans (or soaked, cooked dried beans); 2 tablespoons olive oil (can substitute with vegetable broth); 1 medium onion (yellow or white); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (or canned diced tomatoes); 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust based on spice preference); 1 bay leaf (remove before serving); 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh); 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or fresh); 4 cups vegetable broth (can use chicken broth for non-vegetarian); salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); handful fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

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As I stirred the pot, the rich aroma of sautéed onions and garlic began to swirl around my kitchen, instantly transforming it into a cozy Italian trattoria. This is the magic moment when I know it’s time to unveil my beloved Cannellini Bean Soup. A true vegetarian delight, this comforting Italian classic offers not just a delicious meal but also a quick and easy solution for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and nourishing. With creamy cannellini beans, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a handful of aromatic herbs, it’s a feast for the senses that truly warms the soul. Trust me, this soup is destined to become a regular feature on your menu! Curious how to make this creamy, wholesome masterpiece? Let’s dive in!

Why is Cannellini Bean Soup so special?

Creamy Comfort: This Cannellini Bean Soup brings a velvety texture that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful.

Easy to Make: Prep time is minimal, perfect for busy nights or last-minute gatherings. There’s no fuss—just fresh ingredients coming together seamlessly!

Nutritious Goodness: High in fiber and protein, this vegetarian delight satisfies both hunger and craving for homey goodness.

Flavorful Base: The blend of fragrant herbs and sweet cherry tomatoes elevates the soup to new heights, making it incredibly delicious.

Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a stand-alone meal or pair with crusty bread for a complete experience. You can even explore different toppings like croutons or vegan Parmesan for added fun!

Experience the delight of homemade warmth, and for more ideas, check out easy homemade recipes. This Cannellini Bean Soup might just become your new favorite!

Cannellini Bean Soup Ingredients

Experience the magic of a homemade Cannellini Bean Soup with these simple ingredients!

For the Soup
• Cannellini Beans – Provides creaminess and body; use canned for convenience or soaked, cooked dried beans for freshness.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness during sautéing; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• Onion – Builds a sweet base for the soup; yellow or white onions are preferable.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor with a fragrant aroma; fresh garlic cloves are best.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Adds sweetness and acidity; substitute with canned diced tomatoes if fresh are unavailable.
• Chili Flakes – Adds mild heat; omit or adjust based on spice preference.
• Bay Leaf – Infuses depth of flavor during cooking; ensure to remove before serving.
• Dried Basil and Rosemary – Provide earthy herbal notes; fresh herbs can be substituted for dried.
• Vegetable Broth – The liquid base for the soup; chicken broth can be used for a non-vegetarian option.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Fresh Parsley or Basil – For garnish, adds fresh color and flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Cannellini Bean Soup

Step 1: Blend the Beans
Start by blending one can of cannellini beans along with their liquid until you achieve a smooth texture. This step is key to creating the creamy base of the Cannellini Bean Soup. Set the pureed beans aside while you prepare the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add one chopped onion and cook for about 4–5 minutes until it’s translucent and fragrant. This process builds the flavorful foundation for your Cannellini Bean Soup, making your kitchen smell delightful.

Step 3: Add Garlic
Next, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and let them cook for about 40 seconds, stirring frequently to release their aromatic oils. Make sure the garlic does not brown; you want it fragrant but not burnt, as it will enhance the overall flavor of the soup beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Now, add the blended cannellini beans, one can of drained whole beans, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of chili flakes, a bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and rosemary, along with 4 cups of vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well combined, setting the stage for a hearty Cannellini Bean Soup.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 25–30 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and develop into a rich, satisfying broth.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs
After simmering, remove the pot from heat and discard the bay leaf. Stir in a handful of fresh parsley or basil, adjusting the seasoning if needed. This final touch brightens up the Cannellini Bean Soup, ensuring every bite is packed with fresh flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm Cannellini Bean Soup into bowls and drizzle a bit of olive oil on top, finishing with a sprinkle of black pepper for added flavor. Serve alongside rustic bread to soak up every bit of this creamy, hearty dish.

How to Store and Freeze Cannellini Bean Soup

Fridge: Store cooled Cannellini Bean Soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Always reheat the soup to a simmer before serving, ensuring it’s heated through. You can also blend it again for a perfectly smooth consistency if desired.

Airtight Seal: Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which can affect texture and flavor.

Expert Tips for Cannellini Bean Soup

Smooth Blend: Ensure to blend the beans until completely smooth; this creates the creamy texture essential for the Cannellini Bean Soup.
Layer Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process; caramelizing the onions fully enhances the overall depth of flavor in your soup.
Season Throughout: Taste the soup at various stages of cooking and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, ensuring balanced flavors.
Add Veggies: For added nutrition, toss in diced carrots or leafy greens like spinach towards the end of cooking for extra color and vitamins.
Garnish for Flair: Finish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes before serving; it elevates the presentation and flavor of your Cannellini Bean Soup.

What to Serve with Creamy Cannellini Bean Soup

Experience a cozy meal that warms both the belly and the heart, complementing your comforting Cannellini Bean Soup.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crisp crust and soft interior of bread enhance each luxurious spoonful of soup.
Lemony Green Salad: A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette brings brightness and balances the rich flavors of the soup, creating a delightful contrast.
Sautéed Greens: Garlicky sautéed spinach or kale adds texture and a pop of color to your meal, making it even more nutritious!
Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy, cheesy bites are an irresistible topping that adds richness and a unique twist to the smooth soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add more depth to your meal while enhancing the Italian flair.
Herbed Rice: A bed of fluffy herbed rice complements the soup and soaks up the delicious flavors, making for a hearty, filling dinner.
Chilled White Wine: A light, crisp wine like Pinot Grigio perfectly accompanies the flavors of the soup while refreshing your palate.
Fruit Tart: For dessert, a tart filled with seasonal fruits offers a lovely sweet finish, balancing the savory profile of your meal beautifully.

Serve your Cannellini Bean Soup with any of these delightful pairings to create a feast that your family will cherish!

Cannellini Bean Soup Variations

Feel free to personalize your Cannellini Bean Soup and make it your own with these delightful twists!

Bean Swap: Use great northern or navy beans for a slightly different taste while retaining that creamy texture.
Veggie Boost: Add diced carrots and celery for a more vegetable-rich soup, bringing in extra nutrition and flavor. Toss them in during the initial sautéeing for added sweetness.
Oil-Free Option: Sauté onions and garlic in vegetable broth rather than olive oil for a lighter, vegan twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Herb Freshness: Swap dried basil and rosemary for fresh herbs; they’ll impart a vibrant flavor and brighten up the dish beautifully.
Heat Level: Adjust the chili flakes to your comfort level, or replace them with a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!
Creamier Base: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of cashew cream at the end for a luscious, creamy finish without dairy.
Toppings Galore: Experiment with toppings like crunchy croutons, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan to elevate the texture.
Lemon Zing: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the soup and enhance the flavors, making each bite extraordinary!

Explore these variations and tailor your soup to your taste! If you’re looking for some more inspiration, you might also enjoy making your own rustic bread to complement this dish perfectly. Dive into these flavors and create your ideal Cannellini Bean Soup today!

Make Ahead Options

These creamy Cannellini Bean Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor its deliciousness on busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup up to 3 days in advance by blending the beans and sautéing the onions and garlic. Store the blended bean mixture and sautéed vegetables in the refrigerator and combine them with the remaining ingredients when you’re ready to enjoy. To maintain quality, be sure to refrigerate the soup in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed. When it’s time to serve, simply simmer the soup until heated through, and finish with fresh herbs for a bright flavor boost—delivering that homemade warmth you’ve been craving!

Cannellini Bean Soup Recipe FAQs

What types of cannellini beans should I use?
Absolutely! You can use canned cannellini beans for convenience or dried beans that you’ve soaked and cooked beforehand for a fresher taste. Just ensure that if you choose dried beans, you soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to your soup.

How do I store leftover Cannellini Bean Soup?
To extend the life of your wonderful soup, store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens up too much!

Can Cannellini Bean Soup be frozen?
Yes! For longer storage, you can freeze Cannellini Bean Soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before sealing to prevent any condensation. When you’re ready to savor that creamy goodness again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until steaming.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If you find your Cannellini Bean Soup too thick for your liking, simply add a little vegetable broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. Stir it well and heat until it’s smooth and piping hot.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Very easily! This Cannellini Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten ingredients. Just be sure to pair it with gluten-free bread or crackers if you’re serving it as a meal.

What if I have allergic reactions to certain ingredients?
If you have allergies, you can customize this Cannellini Bean Soup to fit your needs. Omit the chili flakes for a spice allergy or switch the olive oil for a safe alternative such as avocado oil. This flexibility allows you to enjoy a delicious, comforting bowl without worry.