Prepare the Broth:
Chop Vegetables:
Roughly chop 1 celery stalk, 1 carrot, and 1 onion.
Combine and Cook:
In a large pot, add the chopped celery, carrot, and onion.
Add the Parmesan cheese rind and bay leaf.
Pour in 1 liter (4 cups) of water.
Bring to a boil and cook over medium heat for 20-30 minutes.
Prepare the Soup Base:
Chop Remaining Vegetables:
Finely chop 2 small onions and the remaining 3 celery stalks.
Sauté Vegetables:
In a separate large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and fry until translucent.
Add the chopped celery and continue to fry for a few more minutes.
Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and dried paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes.
Strain the Broth:
Remove the vegetables and Parmesan rind from the broth prepared earlier. Set the broth aside.
Combine and Cook:
Add Beans and Broth:
Add the drained and rinsed white beans to the sautéed vegetables.
Pour in the strained broth.
Add salt and ground black pepper to taste.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Blend and Finish:
Blend Part of the Soup:
Pour about 2 cups of the soup into a blender.
Add the lemon zest and juice.
Blend until smooth and return to the pot. (Optional: Blend more for a creamier texture)
Add Final Touches:
Grate additional Parmesan cheese for garnish.
Stir in fresh parsley.
Serve:
Serve Hot:
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
Cooking Tips
For extra flavor, sauté the vegetables in olive oil with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.
Adjust the thickness of the soup by blending more or less of it.
Nutritional Benefits
White beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber.
This soup provides vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
Olive oil adds healthy fats.
Dietary Information
This recipe is vegetarian.
To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is easy to prepare and full of rich, savory flavors.
It’s nutritious and perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.
The lemon zest and juice add a refreshing twist that enhances the overall flavor.
Conclusion
Enjoy this Incredibly Delicious White Bean Soup for a cozy and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any day. Its combination of hearty beans, fresh vegetables, and zesty lemon makes it a delightful dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Bon Appetit!
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