There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup. It’s the kind of dish that soothes your body and satisfies your hunger, while still feeling light and nourishing. With its creamy beans, earthy greens, and fragrant herbs, this soup is a staple in any cozy kitchen.

Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a simple, wholesome meal, this soup comes together in under an hour and is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or meal-prepping for the week, it delivers both flavor and function.

Why You’ll Love This Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

This soup is deeply satisfying while remaining refreshingly healthy. The cannellini beans provide creaminess and protein, while fresh spinach adds nutrients and a hint of green brightness. It’s also a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You can serve it as a hearty main or a light starter, and it freezes beautifully for future meals.

Can I Use Canned Beans or Should I Cook from Scratch?

You can absolutely use canned cannellini beans, which keeps this recipe ultra convenient. Just rinse and drain them before using to reduce excess sodium. If you prefer to cook your beans from scratch, soak them overnight and simmer until tender. Either method works perfectly and depends on how much time you have.

Ingredients for the Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

To make this soup both rich and vibrant, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh greens. Each ingredient plays a key role in building flavor and texture.

Olive oil
Yellow onion
Garlic cloves
Carrots
Celery stalks
Dried thyme
Bay leaf
Vegetable broth
Cannellini beans
Fresh spinach
Salt and black pepper
Lemon juice

How To Make the Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and onions turn translucent.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Beans

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed cannellini beans. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 4: Stir in the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, which takes just a minute or two. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Step 5: Blend If Desired

For a creamier texture, blend half the soup with an immersion blender or transfer some to a blender, then mix back into the pot.

How to Serve and Store This Soup

This soup is best served hot with a drizzle of good olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top. You can also pair it with crusty bread or a warm pita for dipping. This recipe feeds 4 to 6 people comfortably.

To store, let the soup cool completely and refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What to Serve With Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup?

Garlic Bread

Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping and makes the meal feel more substantial.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Melty cheese and crispy bread bring a nostalgic comfort that pairs beautifully with the soup’s smooth texture.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

A fresh, crisp salad with a zingy vinaigrette adds contrast and brightens up the plate.

Roasted Vegetables

A tray of roasted carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower makes a hearty and nutritious side.

Herby Couscous

Light and fluffy couscous with lemon zest and herbs offers a fragrant side that soaks up the soup nicely.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

Sweet and creamy, these are a nutrient-dense complement that balances the savory soup.

Soft-Boiled Eggs

Add extra protein with jammy eggs—a delicious topper if you’re leaning into brunch vibes.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If this Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup hits the spot, you’ll love exploring these other cozy bowls:

Try the ultra-comforting Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for rich, cheesy warmth.
This Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta has all the heartiness of soup with a pasta twist.
Lighten up with Zucchini Lasagna if you’re in the mood for something low-carb yet satisfying.
Or go for Classic Caprese Salad for a refreshing start to a soup-based dinner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so it’s always within reach on busy nights.

And let me know how yours turned out! Did you blend it or keep it chunky? Maybe you added kale or chili flakes? I love hearing your variations.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dishes and more warm meals like this one on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite comforting classic.

Conclusion

This Cannellini Bean and Spinach Soup is everything we love about home cooking: it’s simple, flavorful, and made with love. Whether it becomes your go-to weekday staple or a weekend wind-down meal, it delivers comfort in every spoonful. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back to its warming embrace.