Creamy white beans simmered in a savory broth with tender spinach and gentle herbs, a simple Tuscan-inspired soup that feels warm and nourishing on cold days.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep: 15 min
Cook: 35 min
Total: 50 min
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup whole milk
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp dried rosemary, crushed
Salt and black pepper to taste
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, then cook until softened and lightly fragrant, stirring to release their natural sweetness.
Stir in the garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking briefly until the herbs bloom and coat the vegetables evenly.
Add the white beans and vegetable broth, bring to a gentle simmer, and let the soup cook until the vegetables are fully tender and the flavors are well blended.
Lower the heat and stir in the milk, allowing the broth to turn creamy without boiling so it stays smooth.
Add the spinach and cook just until wilted, keeping its color bright and fresh.
Season with salt and black pepper, then simmer a final minute before serving warm.
Nutrition Facts (approx)
Calories: 320 | Protein: 14g | Carbs: 38g | Fat: 12g
Quick Facts
• one-pot meal
• cold weather comfort
• family approved
• budget friendly
• freezer friendly
Tips
Mash a small portion of the beans in the pot to naturally thicken the soup without adding flour.
Add the spinach at the very end so it stays tender and vibrant instead of overcooked.
Keep the heat gentle once the milk is added to preserve a smooth, creamy texture.
Variations
Rustic Tuscan Style
For a heartier version, add diced potatoes along with the broth and let them simmer until tender. The starch released by the potatoes helps thicken the soup and gives it a countryside feel. For more cozy, rustic ideas, take a look at this grandma’s slow-cooked pot roast recipe, perfect for pairing on chilly days.
Creamier Comfort Version
Add a splash of cream at the end of cooking for extra richness while keeping the soup’s gentle herb flavors in balance. If you’re into creamy dishes with a hint of garlic, this creamy garlic chicken recipe could be another favorite.
Vegetable-Loaded Option
Add zucchini or green beans with the carrots and celery. They soften into the broth and make the soup more filling while staying light.