Escarole and White Bean Soup (25 Minutes)

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Escarole and white bean soup is a classic Italian dish that’s hearty, healthy, and delicious. This soup is perfect for those chilly nights or when you just want something warm and comforting. The combination of escarole and white beans gives this soup a unique flavor that’s both satisfying and nourishing. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 head escarole, chopped
  • 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the escarole and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
  4. Add the white beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  5. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For a heartier soup, you can add some cooked pasta or rice to the pot. You can also swap out the escarole for other leafy greens like spinach or kale. Sometimes, I’ll also throw in some spicy Italian sausage for extra protein and flavor. Serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

*The following nutritional information is based on estimates.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 229
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 919mg
  • Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 10g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Pair this with...

Herbed Garlic Bread

Grab a fresh baguette or loaf of Italian bread and slice it as desired. In a bowl, mix together softened unsalted butter, finely minced garlic (the more, the merrier, but about 3-4 cloves should do), a good pinch of salt, and chopped fresh herbs. Parsley and basil are classics, but don't hesitate to throw in some oregano or rosemary if you're feeling adventurous. Spread this aromatic butter mix generously over the cut sides of your bread. Pop it under the broiler in your oven for about 2-4 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the butter is bubbling and fragrant. Keep a close eye on it, as broiling can quickly go from perfectly toasted to charred! Once done, slice it up and serve.

Lemony Kale Salad

Start by de-stemming your kale leaves and chopping them into bite-sized pieces. Remember, kale can be a bit tough, so give it a little massage with your hands to soften it up and enhance its natural sweetness. For the dressing, whisk together freshly squeezed lemon juice, some zesty lemon zest, olive oil, and a hint of salt and pepper. This simple dressing is a burst of citrusy goodness that pairs beautifully with the robustness of the kale. Toss the massaged kale in the lemon dressing, ensuring every leafy nook and cranny is coated. To finish, sprinkle on sunflower seeds and pine nuts for a delightful crunch.

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini is a fan favorite that brings out the vegetable's natural sweetness, complemented by a smoky char. Start by slicing your zucchini lengthwise into planks, not too thin to ensure they hold up on the grill. Lightly brush them with olive oil on both sides to keep them from sticking and to enhance that delicious grill flavor. Season with a pinch of salt and maybe a touch of pepper or your favorite herbs. Once your grill is nice and hot, lay those zucchini slices down and listen to that satisfying sizzle. Grill for a few minutes on each side until you've got those hallmark grill marks and the zucchini is tender with a slight crunch.

Hi, I'm Alaina! As a busy mom of two, I'm tired of always wondering "what's for dinner?" That's why I created this website; to share easy and tasty recipe ideas the whole family will love. If you're not subscribed yet, join 47,098 others here - thanks for stopping by!