The aroma of nourishing white bean, escarole, and lemon soup wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: a steaming bowl brimming with creamy white beans and vibrant greens, all swirled together in a zesty broth that could make even the grumpiest of souls smile. Each spoonful is a delightful dance of flavors, where the earthiness of the beans meets the bright notes of lemon and the slight bitterness of escarole. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Creamy Irish Colcannon recipe.
Now, if you’re anything like me, soup isn’t just food; it’s comfort in a bowl. I remember one rainy afternoon when I decided to whip up this very recipe. As the soup bubbled away on the stove, I found myself reminiscing about family dinners filled with laughter and stories, all centered around bowls of goodness just like this one. comforting Italian soup recipe This nourishing white bean, escarole, and lemon soup is perfect for those cozy nights in or when you’re feeling under the weather. Get ready to savor an experience that promises warmth and joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This nourishing white bean, escarole, and lemon soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal
- The flavor profile balances creamy beans with zesty lemon for a refreshing taste explosion
- Its vibrant green color makes it visually stunning and perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties
- Versatile enough for any occasion, enjoy it as a starter or main dish
I once made this nourishing white bean, escarole, and lemon soup for my friends during a game night, and let’s just say there were no leftovers—just happy faces!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- White Beans: Canned or dried, these provide creaminess; soaking dried beans overnight yields the best texture.
- Escarole: This leafy green adds a slightly bitter yet refreshing taste; look for crisp leaves without browning. refreshing drink pairing.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dish; bottled juice just won’t cut it here.
- Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while keeping flavors rich; homemade broth takes it up a notch.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring robust flavor; always opt for whole bulbs over pre-minced varieties for better taste.
- Onion: A yellow onion works best here; sauté until translucent for sweet undertones in your broth.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; use it generously but not excessively to avoid greasiness.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences as you go along.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Irish Soda Bread Recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by prepping your ingredients: Chop your onion and garlic finely while rinsing your escarole thoroughly to remove any grit. Set everything aside so you are ready to roll.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering. Toss in chopped onions and garlic until they become fragrant and golden brown—about 5 minutes will do.
Add Escarole and Broth: Stir in your washed escarole until wilted—it should take about 3 minutes. Pour in vegetable broth while bringing everything back to a gentle simmer.
Add White Beans and Lemon Juice: Next comes the star of our show! Gently fold in drained white beans along with freshly squeezed lemon juice. Let simmer for an additional 10 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.
Season to Perfection: Taste your creation! Add salt and pepper gradually until it’s just right. Remember: you can always add more but never take it out!
Serve Hot with Garnish Options!: Ladle hot soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra lemon zest if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy your masterpiece! quick dessert option.
This nourishing white bean, escarole, and lemon soup brings together comfort food vibes with heart-healthy ingredients—a true winner on any table! healthy stuffed pepper dish.
You Must Know
- This nourishing white bean, escarole, and lemon soup is a hug in a bowl
- The creamy texture and zesty notes will uplift your spirits, especially on a chilly day
- With simple ingredients, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that even the pickiest eaters will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add escarole and beans. Pour in broth and let simmer for 20 minutes to blend the flavors beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to toss in some diced carrots or swap escarole for kale. A sprinkle of parmesan on top adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use dried beans soaked overnight for a richer flavor; canned beans are convenient but may lack depth
- Always taste before serving; a little extra salt or lemon can elevate the dish significantly
- Don’t rush cooking; patience allows flavors to develop beautifully
The first time I made this soup, my friend declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which made my heart swell with pride!
FAQ
Can I use frozen beans instead of dried?
Yes, frozen beans can be used; just adjust cooking time accordingly.
What if I can’t find escarole?
You can substitute with spinach or Swiss chard for similar results.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Nourishing White Bean, Escarole, and Lemon Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Nourishing white bean, escarole, and lemon soup is the ultimate comfort food that warms both body and soul. This delightful soup combines creamy white beans with the refreshing zest of lemon and the slight bitterness of escarole, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Ideal for chilly nights or when you’re feeling under the weather, this easy-to-make recipe guarantees smiles all around. Enjoy it as a starter or main dish at your next dinner party and savor the joy it brings!
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups escarole, chopped
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Prep your ingredients: Chop onion and garlic; rinse escarole.
- 2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- 3. Stir in escarole until wilted (about 3 minutes). Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- 4. Add white beans and lemon juice; let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- 5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon zest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
