Looking for a delicious and satisfying way to use up those extra zucchinis piling up in your kitchen? This Chunky Zucchini Soup with White Beans is a perfect solution! Packed with fresh, tender zucchini and creamy white beans, this soup is comforting and full of flavor. It’s a wonderful option for Meatless Mondays, or anytime you want a light yet hearty meal that’s quick and easy to make. With a rich broth base, this veggie-packed soup comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a healthy, plant-based dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 medium zucchinis (diced)
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans (such as cannellini or great northern, drained and rinsed)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian option)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup frozen or fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until it begins to soften and turn translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add the Zucchini:
- Stir in the diced zucchini and cook for 5-6 minutes, until the zucchini starts to soften and releases some of its moisture.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Add the white beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. If you like a little heat, you can also add the crushed red pepper flakes here.
- Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes. The zucchini should be tender, and the soup should be slightly thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Add Greens (Optional):
- If you’re adding spinach or another leafy green, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow it to wilt into the soup.
- Finish and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve with a wedge of lemon on the side for a burst of freshness.
Tips:
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup for variety, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. They’ll add more texture and flavor to the base.
- Blending the Soup: For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, leaving some chunks for a thicker consistency. Alternatively, blend about half the soup in a regular blender and then return it to the pot.
- Beans: If you don’t have white beans on hand, feel free to swap them out for any other type of bean, such as chickpeas or kidney beans.
- Spices: You can experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor of the soup. A little rosemary, bay leaves, or a pinch of cumin can add a unique twist.
Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~8g
- Fat: ~7g
- Carbs: ~24g
- Fiber: ~6g
- WW Points: 4 points (depending on the type of broth and oil used)
Why You’ll Love This Soup:
This Chunky Zucchini Soup with White Beans is the perfect light yet filling dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrients. The creamy beans add protein and a rich texture, while the zucchini gives the soup a fresh, hearty feel. The combination of herbs and the simple broth makes it a flavorful base for all the veggies. It’s naturally low in calories but high in fiber and plant-based goodness, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to eat a little healthier. Whether you’re trying to reduce your meat consumption or just in need of a quick, satisfying veggie meal, this soup is the answer! Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with whatever vegetables or herbs you have on hand. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.
