Fire-Roasted White Bean Soup

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

2. Add the Tomatoes and Beans

• Incorporate the Tomatoes: Pour in the can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes along with its juice. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic.
• Add the Beans: Stir in the drained and rinsed white beans.

3. Add Broth and Seasonings

• Pour in the Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
• Season: Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Simmer the Soup

• Reduce Heat: Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a thicker consistency, use a potato masher to gently mash some of the beans while cooking.

5. Add the Greens (Optional)

• Incorporate Spinach or Kale: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing the greens to wilt slightly.

6. Serve

• Ladle into Bowls: Serve the Fire-Roasted White Bean Soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Pair with Bread: Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for Making the Best Fire-Roasted White Bean Soup

• Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: The smoky flavor of fire-roasted tomatoes adds depth to the soup. If you can’t find fire-roasted, use regular diced tomatoes and add a pinch of smoked paprika for a similar effect.
• Blending Option: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some beans whole for texture.
• Meat Lovers: Add cooked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for an extra protein boost.

Health Considerations

• Plant-Based Protein: The white beans provide a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup a nutritious and filling option.
• Low-Calorie: With simple, wholesome ingredients, this soup is a great choice for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you’re serving with bread, choose gluten-free bread or crackers to keep the entire meal gluten-free.

Conclusion

Fire-Roasted White Bean Soup is a warm and inviting dish that brings together the smokiness of fire-roasted tomatoes and the creaminess of white beans. It’s easy to prepare, full of wholesome ingredients, and perfect for cozying up on a cold day. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or a tasty starter, this soup will hit the spot. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a bowl of heartwarming goodness!