Description
A hearty and creamy soup packed with spinach, artichokes, and white beans. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner, this Mediterranean-inspired soup is naturally vegan and can be made in a slow cooker. It’s comforting, nutritious, and full of flavor, with a touch of garlic, herbs, and a smooth texture without using cream.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (serves 4–6):
For the Soup:
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) cannellini or white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for Mediterranean flavor)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Optional: 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast or plant-based cream for extra creaminess
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (if using). Stir in thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Add Beans and Artichokes
Add the drained white beans and chopped artichoke hearts. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add Spinach
Stir in chopped spinach and cook for another 3–5 minutes until wilted.
Step 5: Optional Creaminess
For a creamier texture, blend 1–2 cups of soup and stir back into the pot, or add nutritional yeast/plant-based cream and stir until smooth.
Step 6: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Notes
- Slow Cooker Option: Combine all ingredients except spinach in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add spinach in the last 10 minutes.
- Meal Prep: Soup stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.
- Extra Flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup / Main Course
- Method: Stovetop / Slow Cooker