Kale White Bean Soup

Featured in: Vegetarian & Vegan

This vibrant soup combines tender kale and hearty white beans simmered with garlic, lemon zest, and herbs. The blend of fresh vegetables sautéed in olive oil creates a flavorful base, enhanced by thyme, oregano, and a hint of crushed red pepper. Cooked until the kale is tender yet bright, the soup offers a comforting, nutritious bowl perfect for any day. Enjoy it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Updated on Sun, 15 Feb 2026 22:00:44 GMT
Hearty bowl of kale and white bean soup with lemon and garlic, garnished with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread.  Save to Pinterest
Hearty bowl of kale and white bean soup with lemon and garlic, garnished with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread. | krispyrecipes.com

Savor the bright, Mediterranean-inspired flavors of this nourishing Kale and White Bean Soup. This dish perfectly balances the earthiness of tender curly kale and hearty cannellini beans with the vibrant, zesty notes of fresh lemon and aromatic garlic, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome lunch or a light dinner.

Hearty bowl of kale and white bean soup with lemon and garlic, garnished with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread.  Save to Pinterest
Hearty bowl of kale and white bean soup with lemon and garlic, garnished with fresh parsley and served with crusty bread. | krispyrecipes.com

With its aromatic base of carrots, celery, and onion, this soup provides a deep, savory foundation that enhances the brightness of the lemon juice and zest added at the end. It's a cozy, comforting bowl that feels both indulgent and remarkably healthy.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery ribs, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups curly kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini or great northern beans, rinsed and drained
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Step 2
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
Step 3
Stir in the thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4
Add the beans and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5
Add the chopped kale and cook for another 10–12 minutes, until the kale is tender but still vibrant.
Step 6
Stir in lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7
Remove from heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For a creamier texture, mash a cup of beans before adding or blend part of the soup before serving.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Add diced potatoes or swap kale for spinach for variety.

Serviervorschläge

Serve with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan (for non-vegan option).

Vibrant green kale and creamy white beans in a fragrant garlic and lemon broth, perfect for a nourishing vegetarian meal.  Save to Pinterest
Vibrant green kale and creamy white beans in a fragrant garlic and lemon broth, perfect for a nourishing vegetarian meal. | krispyrecipes.com

This Kale and White Bean Soup is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can create a meal that is both deeply satisfying and refreshing. It’s the perfect addition to your rotation of healthy, comforting recipes.

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Common Recipe Questions

Can I substitute spinach for kale?

Yes, spinach can be used as a milder alternative to kale, added towards the end to prevent overcooking.

How do I make the soup creamier?

Mash some beans before adding them or blend part of the mixture for a richer texture without dairy.

What bread pairs well with this soup?

Crusty artisan breads or a baguette complement the soup's flavors and add satisfying crunch.

Can I adjust the seasoning for spice?

Yes, increase or omit crushed red pepper flakes according to your preferred heat level.

Is it suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely, it is naturally vegan and gluten-free, using plant-based ingredients and vegetable broth.

Kale White Bean Soup

Nourishing soup with kale, white beans, lemon zest, and garlic for a light, flavorful meal.

Prep Duration
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
30 minutes
Overall Time
45 minutes
Created by Mia Harper

Recipe Type Vegetarian & Vegan

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type Mediterranean-Inspired

Total Portions 4 Serving Size

Dietary Considerations Plant-Based, No Dairy, No Gluten

What You’ll Need

Vegetables

01 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
04 2 celery ribs, sliced
05 4 cloves garlic, minced
06 6 cups curly kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

Beans & Broth

01 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini or great northern beans, rinsed and drained
02 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

Flavorings & Seasonings

01 1 teaspoon dried thyme
02 1 teaspoon dried oregano
03 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
04 Zest of 1 lemon
05 Juice of 1 lemon
06 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Finishing Touches

01 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make It

Step 01

Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

Step 02

Bloom garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 03

Toast spices: Stir in thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking briefly to release their aromatic oils.

Step 04

Build broth base: Add beans and vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 05

Wilt kale: Add chopped kale and cook for 10 to 12 minutes until tender but still vibrant in color.

Step 06

Finish with citrus: Stir in lemon zest and juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 07

Serve: Remove from heat. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large soup pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle

Possible Allergens

Double-check each ingredient for allergens and consult an expert if you're unsure.
  • Contains no major allergens
  • If serving with bread or cheese, check for gluten or dairy
  • Always verify ingredient labels for processed foods

Nutritional Information (per serving)

This data is for informational purposes and shouldn't replace professional advice.
  • Calorie Count: 230
  • Total Fat: 6 grams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34 grams
  • Protein Content: 10 grams