Are you craving a hearty, nutritious meal that comes together in under 45 minutes? Look no further than this incredible White Bean Soup with Orzo - a Mediterranean-inspired dish that promises to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience! Packed with protein, fiber, and bursting with flavor, this soup is not just a meal, but a comforting embrace in a bowl that will make your taste buds dance and your body thank you.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by draining and rinsing the white beans, chopping the onion and spinach, and mincing the garlic.
- Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and soft, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add the drained white beans, orzo pasta, and dried thyme to the pot.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and cooked through.
- Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Always rinse canned beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and remove excess starch
- Use fresh thyme if possible for a more vibrant herb flavor
- Don't overcook the orzo - it should be al dente to prevent a mushy texture
- For extra richness, consider adding a parmesan rind while simmering
- If you want a thicker soup, slightly mash some of the white beans before adding
- Experiment with additional vegetables like carrots or celery for more depth
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but add fresh spinach when reheating
- For a protein boost, top with crumbled feta or a poached egg
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
