The warmth of a simmering pot of Greek White Bean Soup (Fasolada) is always a welcome sensation in my kitchen, especially as the chill of autumn settles in. It’s funny how a simple dish can evoke such comfort and nostalgia. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of hearty flavors paired with the creamy richness of white beans, all drizzled with a touch of olive oil that beckons you to take a seat at your dinner table.
After a particularly busy week juggling work and home, I found myself craving something wholesome yet easy to prepare. That’s when the idea for this classic Greek soup popped into my mind—a perfect way to treat myself and transform my pantry staples into something magical.
With savory vegetables, aromatic spices, and a sprinkle of feta, this dish harnesses the beauty of simplicity while delivering on taste and satisfaction. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue and a crowd-pleaser for family or friends. Join me in creating a bowl of comforting delight that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why will you love Greek White Bean Soup?
Simplicity at Its Best: Preparing this Greek White Bean Soup (Fasolada) is a breeze, requiring just a few wholesome ingredients and minimal effort.
Rich, Hearty Flavor: Packed with the goodness of white beans, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, each spoonful delivers a satisfying burst of flavor.
Versatile Dish: This soup is a chameleon in the kitchen; serve it as a main dish, side, or even an appetizer!
Healthy and Wholesome: With its nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s a wholesome choice, perfect for fueling your busy days without guilt.
Affordable Comfort: Utilizing pantry staples, this budget-friendly recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to break the bank!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to impress with its unique blend of flavors and delightful garnishes.
Greek White Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil – a splash of this golden liquid enhances the flavors while adding healthy fats.
• 1 yellow onion, diced – this sweet and aromatic base adds depth to your soup.
• 2 celery stalks, diced – the crunch contributes a subtle flavor and texture to your Greek White Bean Soup.
• 2 medium carrots, diced – these sweet veggies lend a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory elements.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – the essence of garlic infuses every bite with warmth and aromatic goodness.
• 1 tsp paprika – this spice adds a beautiful color and mild smokiness to the mix.
• 1/2 tsp salt – seasoning the soup right is key for elevating all the flavors.
• 1/2 tsp pepper – a touch of this spice deepens the soup’s complexity.
• 1/4 tsp chili flakes – these add a little kick; adjust according to your spice preference.
• 1 bay leaf – this herb infuses the soup with a subtle, earthy note.
• 2 (14 oz) cans white kidney or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed – the star of the show, providing creaminess and protein.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste – this concentrated flavor source adds richness and depth to the soup.
• 1 1/2 tbsp vegetable stock paste – a little of this goes a long way in enhancing the broth’s taste.
• 3 1/2–4 cups water – the liquid base for your soup; adjust for desired thickness.
For Garnish
• Crumbled feta – this adds a tangy creaminess that perfectly complements the soup.
• Fresh parsley – a sprinkle of this bright herb offers a fresh finish and beautiful presentation.
How to Make Greek White Bean Soup
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Heat the Oil: In a medium-large soup pot, add the olive oil and warm it over medium-high heat. This will be the foundation for your aromatic veggies.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Once the pot is warm, reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes until the veggies are softened and have developed a lovely color.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, chili flakes, bay leaf, and rinsed beans. Cook this fragrant mixture for about 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the tomato paste, vegetable stock paste, and water while stirring well to combine. Bring this delicious concoction to a simmer over high heat before lowering it to medium-low. Cover with a lid, leaving a bit of space for steam to escape, and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring a couple of times.
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Taste and Adjust: After 30 minutes, give the soup a taste. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you desire; this will truly elevate the dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor and color. This soup is best served warm and enjoyed with loved ones.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving for added richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Greek White Bean Soup?
Creating a cozy meal around this hearty soup will warm both heart and home.
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and golden garlic flavor complement the creamy soup, perfect for dipping and savoring every bite.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with vibrant greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring earthy sweetness to the table, elevating your meal while adding colorful charm.
- Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed side offers nutty flavors and varied textures, enhancing the overall nourishment of your dining experience.
- Wine Pairing: A light, crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, matches beautifully with the soup while enhancing its flavors.
- Warm Pita Bread: Soft pita is perfect for saucing up every last drop of soup and adds a delightful chewy texture to the meal.
- Feta Cheese Dip: Serve a creamy feta dip alongside for an additional tangy treat; it echoes the soup’s garnishes and brings extra flavor.
- Fruit Compote: For dessert, a light fruit compote provides a sweet contrast to the hearty soup, completing a well-rounded meal.
Greek White Bean Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Greek White Bean Soup, enhancing it to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute crumbled feta with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan feta for a creamy, dairy-free option.
- Spicy Boost: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the soup for an extra kick of heat that warms you from the inside out.
- Italian Twist: Incorporate Italian herbs like oregano and thyme for a new aromatic experience that gives a fun Mediterranean flair.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in diced zucchini or chopped kale for added nutrition and texture, making it even heartier.
- Citrus Zing: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens flavors and adds a refreshing burst of acidity.
Whether you’re mixing in seasonal veggies or trying a new garnish, these simple variations will turn your Greek White Bean Soup into a dish that’s uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These comforting bowls of Greek White Bean Soup (Fasolada) are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (onion, celery, and carrots) and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before cooking. Additionally, you can rinse and drain the beans, mixing them with the spices and other dry ingredients to have everything ready. When it comes time to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies, add the remaining ingredients, and let the soup simmer for a deliciously quick meal. This way, you’ll save precious time on busy weeknights while ensuring every bowl is just as hearty and flavorful as when prepared fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Greek White Bean Soup
Fridge: Store your Greek White Bean Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain its texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen soup, move it to the fridge overnight to thaw. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed for consistency.
Reheating: Heat the soup over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add fresh garnishes like crumbled feta and parsley for a fresh flavor boost!
Expert Tips for Greek White Bean Soup
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Oil Temperature: Make sure your olive oil is heated before adding vegetables to prevent them from becoming soggy; it enhances their natural sweetness.
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Perfect Veggies: Avoid overcooking your diced onion, celery, and carrots; a little color adds depth and flavor to the Greek White Bean Soup.
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Taste Testing: Always taste your soup before serving; adjusting seasoning at the end allows for a well-balanced flavor that your guests will love.
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Spice It Up: Don’t be shy with the chili flakes! Gradually increase the amount to suit your heat preference but remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out.
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Storage Savvy: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
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Garnish Love: Fresh parsley and crumbled feta aren’t just for show—they elevate the flavor profile of your Greek White Bean Soup, making each bowl delightful.
Greek White Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe vegetables for my Greek White Bean Soup?
Absolutely! When selecting your vegetables, look for onions that are firm with dry, papery skins and no dark spots. Choose celery stalks that are crisp and green, and pick carrots that are bright orange with a firm, smooth texture. Fresh garlic should have tight, undamaged skins and no green sprout growing from the clove.
How should I store leftover Greek White Bean Soup?
Very! To store your Greek White Bean Soup, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. It’s essential to let the soup cool completely before sealing the container to maintain its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Greek White Bean Soup?
Of course! Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or zip-lock bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. For easy serving, consider portioning it out in smaller amounts.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Greek White Bean Soup?
Definitely! To reheat frozen soup, transfer it to the fridge overnight to thaw. Once thawed, gently heat it on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the consistency is too thick, feel free to add a splash of water. Remember to refresh the garnishes with feta and parsley for that extra zing!
Are there any dietary considerations for Greek White Bean Soup?
Very much so! This soup is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the feta cheese. If you or your guests have allergies, ensure that your vegetable stock paste is free of any sensitive ingredients. Always check for specific allergens in the canned beans or other packaged ingredients you use. Enjoy this nourishing soup that suits various diets!
Delicious Greek White Bean Soup (Fasolada) for Cozy Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-large soup pot, add the olive oil and warm it over medium-high heat.
- Once the pot is warm, reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes until the veggies are softened and have developed a lovely color.
- Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, chili flakes, bay leaf, and rinsed beans. Cook this fragrant mixture for about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste, vegetable stock paste, and water while stirring well to combine. Bring to a simmer over high heat before lowering it to medium-low. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm.