Nothing soothes the soul and satisfies your hunger like a bowl of homemade Healthy White Bean Soup. This nourishing, veggie-packed dish is loaded with tender white beans, crisp carrots, earthy kale, and fragrant herbs in a cozy, garlic-infused broth.


Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up a quick comforting dinner, this one-pot wonder checks every box: healthy, hearty, and unbelievably simple. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, high in fiber and protein, and perfect for chilly nights or light lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Healthy White Bean Soup
- It’s incredibly nutritious, thanks to protein-rich beans and nutrient-dense greens.
- One pot = fewer dishes and less hassle.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
- Freezer-friendly for future meals.
- Ideal for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Can I Use Canned Beans in This Recipe?
Yes! Canned beans are not only convenient but also a great time-saver. Be sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce sodium and improve texture. If you’d like to use dried beans, soak and cook them in advance before following the recipe.
Ingredients for the Healthy White Bean Soup

Each ingredient in this soup serves a purpose—from creating a flavorful base to providing texture, protein, and vibrant color.
- Olive oil – Essential for sautéing vegetables and building flavor.
- Yellow onion (1 medium) – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced) – Boosts the aromatic base of the broth.
- Carrots (3 medium, diced) – Offer natural sweetness and color.
- Celery stalks (2, chopped) – Adds a satisfying crunch and balances sweetness.
- Vegetable broth (6 cups) – The savory backbone of the soup.
- Cannellini or Great Northern beans (2 cans, 15 oz each) – Creamy, protein-rich, and filling.
- Kale (3 cups, chopped) – A hearty green that wilts perfectly into the hot broth.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp) – Earthy and comforting.
- Salt (1 tsp) & black pepper (1/2 tsp) – To season the dish just right.
- Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – For a bright, fresh finish.
- Grated parmesan (optional, for serving) – Adds a savory umami boost if desired.
How To Make the Healthy White Bean Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Veggies
Toss in the diced carrots and chopped celery. Stir well and cook for 5–7 minutes, letting the vegetables soften and slightly caramelize.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Seasonings
Add 6 cups of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir in the drained and rinsed white beans. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer and Wilt
Lower the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15 minutes. Add the 3 cups of chopped kale and simmer for another 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Add grated parmesan if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
How to Serve and Store Healthy White Bean Soup
This recipe yields 6 hearty servings. It makes an ideal lunch or dinner, especially when paired with toasted bread or a light salad. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What to Serve With Healthy White Bean Soup?
H3: Rustic Bread or Baguette
The broth begs for a warm, crusty piece of bread to soak up every drop.
H3: Simple Arugula Salad
A peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the soup’s earthiness.
H3: Roasted Vegetable Platter
Roasted sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers make a nourishing side.
H3: Avocado Toast
Try our Avocado Toast Variations with Poached Egg & Smoked Salmon.
H3: Fruit Tart with Glaze
For dessert, a refreshing Fruit Tart with Glossy Glaze pairs beautifully.
H3: Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas
Serve it for brunch with these Vegan Breakfast Quesadillas.
H3: Chia Pudding
End the meal lightly with Mango & Dragon Fruit Chia Pudding.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Zucchini, potatoes, or even green beans are delicious additions.
2. How can I make this soup creamier?
Blend one cup of the soup and stir it back in for a thicker texture. Or, stir in a splash of coconut milk.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your broth label.
4. Can I use spinach instead of kale?
Yes, spinach wilts faster, so add it in the last minute of cooking.
5. What if I want to add meat?
Diced chicken sausage or cooked shredded chicken works great for extra protein.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner or soup board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use kale or another green? Try a twist with a dash of smoked paprika?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.
For more delicious ideas, check out my Pinterest: Meals We Share
Conclusion
Healthy White Bean Soup is proof that simple ingredients can deliver extraordinary flavor. This nourishing soup offers comfort in every spoonful and adapts beautifully to your preferences and pantry. Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or just need a go-to soup recipe for cooler days, this one deserves a permanent place in your meal rotation.
Print
Healthy White Bean Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Nothing soothes the soul and satisfies your hunger like a bowl of homemade Healthy White Bean Soup. This quick dinner recipe is packed with creamy white beans, hearty kale, tender carrots, and a garlic-herb broth that’s comforting and flavorful. Perfect for easy dinner ideas, healthy lunch options, or meal prep, this nutritious soup is both vegan and gluten-free, making it one of the best food ideas for clean eating lovers.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
6 cups vegetable broth
2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini or Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed
3 cups kale, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Grated parmesan, for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
2. Stir in carrots and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Pour in vegetable broth. Add thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the beans. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
5. Add kale and simmer an additional 5 minutes, until wilted.
6. Taste and adjust seasonings. Garnish with fresh parsley and optional parmesan. Serve hot.
Notes
For extra creaminess, blend 1 cup of soup and stir it back into the pot.
Feel free to swap kale with spinach or chard.
Add chili flakes for a touch of heat if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: healthy soup, white bean soup, vegan soup, easy dinner, quick soup, gluten-free soup


