There’s something almost magical about the way a warm bowl of soup can transform a chilly afternoon. When I first stumbled upon Fasolatha, I was drawn in by its rich history and its essence of Greek cuisine. This delightful White Bean and Tomato Soup isn’t just a comfort food; it’s a vibrant embrace on a cold day. With simple ingredients and the power of dried beans, this recipe creates a creamy texture that’s both healthy and satisfying. Plus, it’s vegetarian, dairy-free, and freezer-friendly, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy gathering dish. As you simmer the beans and tomatoes, the inviting aroma begins to fill your kitchen, beckoning you to dive in. Ready to experience the warmth and flavor of this beloved Greek classic? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Soup So Comforting?

Rich, Creamy Texture: The use of dried white beans creates a velvety consistency that will warm your soul on a chilly night.

Bursting with Flavor: Combined with fresh tomatoes and aromatic veggies, each spoonful is a delicious experience that celebrates Greek cuisine.

Hearty and Healthy: Packed with nutrients, this vegetarian soup is not only filling but also supports a balanced lifestyle—perfect if you’re looking to ditch fast food.

Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with rustic bread, feta, or olives for a complete feast. You can even explore variations like adding leafy greens or spices for a personal touch.

Freezer-Friendly Delight: Make a big batch and store leftovers for a quick, hearty meal anytime. Perfect alongside other comforting dishes like Chicken Noodle Soup or Shrimp Corn Soup!

White Bean And Tomato Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Dried Cannellini Beans – They provide bulk and creaminess to the soup; for a quicker option, substitute with any small white beans.
Boiling Hot Water/Vegetable Stock – Acts as the base, enhancing flavor significantly; using vegetable stock will give a richer taste.
Onion – A finely chopped large onion adds sweetness and depth to your soup.
Bay Leaf – This essential herb introduces an aromatic flavor that’s pivotal for achieving traditional taste.

For the Vegetables

Carrots – Slice into ½ cm rounds; they contribute both sweetness and color to the mix.
Celery – Offers crunch and flavor depth; don’t forget to include some leaves for additional taste.
Grated Ripe Tomato – Use ripe tomatoes as they provide freshness and slight acidity; for best results, peel before grating.
Tomato Paste – It intensifies the tomato flavor and helps thicken the soup for a richer texture.

For Finishing Touches

Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and enhances flavors; choose good-quality oil for the best results. Drizzle extra when serving for an added touch.
Freshly Ground Pepper – Season to taste for a robust flavor profile; feel free to adjust as it elevates the soup.
Optional: Hot red pepper flakes or chili pepper – Add these for a kick of heat, adjusting per your spice preference.

This White Bean and Tomato Soup is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace that nourishes and comforts, making it perfect for your winter evenings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Bean And Tomato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Begin by soaking your dried cannellini beans in plenty of water for about 1 hour. This softens them, speeding up the cooking process. Once soaked, drain the beans and boil them in a pot of water for 2-3 minutes. Drain again to ensure they are ready for the rich flavors of your White Bean And Tomato Soup.

Step 2: Cook the Beans
Return the soaked beans to a large pot and pour in 10 cups of boiling water or vegetable stock for a delightful flavor. Add in the bay leaf, finely chopped onion, and a generous pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a rapid boil, then reduce the heat to low, covering the pot. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, until the beans are tender and bursting with flavor.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Stir in the tomato paste, grated ripe tomato, sliced celery, and carrot rounds. The vibrant colors and textures will add depth to your White Bean And Tomato Soup. Drizzle in some extra virgin olive oil and, if you like a little spice, add chili pepper or hot red pepper flakes. Season with freshly ground pepper to elevate the flavors, mixing everything well.

Step 4: Final Cooking
Increase the heat to medium and let your soup simmer covered for an additional 30 minutes. Stir the pot every 10 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken and the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll know it’s ready when the soup has a creamy texture and the aroma fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Step 5: Rest and Serve
After cooking, let the White Bean And Tomato Soup stand uncovered for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop further. When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with extra olive oil. Sprinkle with additional ground pepper and optional chili flakes for an extra kick, inviting everyone to dig into this comforting bowl.

Expert Tips for White Bean And Tomato Soup

Soaking Beans: Always soak beans for at least an hour to ensure they cook evenly. Skipping this step may result in undercooked beans.
Flavor Depth: Enhance your soup’s flavor by using homemade vegetable stock instead of water. This small change makes a significant impact on the richness of your white bean and tomato soup.
Thickening Trick: For a creamier consistency, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and mix it back in. It transforms your soup into a comforting delight!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Canned tomatoes can work in a pinch, but spoil the freshness that makes Fasolatha shine.
Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allow the beans to simmer gently without rushing them. Patience is key for achieving tender beans in your white bean and tomato soup.

White Bean And Tomato Soup Variations

Feel free to make this comforting soup your own by adding delightful twists to suit your taste!

Meat Lovers: Add diced bacon or sausage for a savory flavor boost that delights the palate. The smoky essence complements the beans beautifully, creating a heartier dish.
Leafy Greens: Toss in some fresh spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and a vibrant color splash. These greens will wilt perfectly, enhancing the soup’s texture and goodness.
Different Beans: Swap out cannellini beans for navy, great northern, or even black beans for a unique twist. Each bean offers a distinct flavor and texture, letting you customize the soup to your liking.
Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an aromatic uplift. This simple addition increases flavor depth, infusing the soup with a refreshing essence that excites the senses.
Spice It Up: For added heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño. Adjust according to your spice preference; this personal touch can transform the soup’s character entirely.
Creamy Texture: For an indulgent version, blend a portion of the soup until smooth and mix it back in. This creates an even creamier consistency, making each spoonful a velvety delight.
Citrus Zest: Add a splash of lemon juice just before serving for a bright, zesty finish. The acidity cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Rustic Accompaniments: Serve alongside crusty bread, olives, or feta cheese. Pairing with hearty sides can turn this soup into a complete Mediterranean feast, reminiscent of cherished family gatherings.

This White Bean and Tomato Soup pairs wonderfully with dishes like Wonton Soup Cozy or Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta. Embrace the cozy vibes and enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Authentic Greek Fasolatha?

Fasolatha is the heart of a comforting meal, brimming with warmth and rich flavors that invite you to indulge.

Rustic Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crusty texture complements the creamy soup and soaks up every drop of flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled on top, it adds a salty tang that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s sweetness, creating a delightful balance.
Olives: A mix of Kalamata and green olives brings briny notes that enhance the Mediterranean experience while adding vibrant flavors.
Salt-Cured Fish: Traditional in Greek meals, a slice of salt-cured fish or anchovies pairs well, providing a savory bite that resonates with the soup’s warmth.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted veggies offers a textural contrast and complements the nourishing beans, enhancing your healthful meal.
Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and a drizzle of olive oil add freshness, brightening the palate between bites of the hearty soup.
Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine, such as Agiorgitiko, harmonizes with the flavors of Fasolatha, enhancing your dining experience.
Dessert: Conclude your meal with a slice of baklava for a sweet touch, wrapping up the evening with a taste of tradition and sweetness.

Make Ahead Options

Fasolatha, your delightful White Bean and Tomato Soup, is perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can soak and cook the dried cannellini beans up to 24 hours in advance, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also chop the vegetables, including onions, carrots, and celery, up to 3 days ahead to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting soup, simply heat the beans with boiling vegetable stock, add the prepped ingredients, and let it simmer to meld the flavors. This way, you ensure that every bowl remains just as delicious and satisfying, allowing you to savor your home-cooked meal without the rush!

Storage Tips for White Bean And Tomato Soup

Fridge: Store leftover White Bean and Tomato Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to enjoy its comforting warmth again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Ensure cool temperatures before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags.
Thawing: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge or use the microwave for quicker results. Reheat on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth as needed for consistency.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with fresh bread or a drizzle of olive oil after reheating; this restores its delightful flavors and creamy texture.

White Bean And Tomato Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of beans should I use for this soup?
For the best result, I recommend using dried cannellini beans as they provide creaminess and bulk. If you can’t find them, feel free to substitute with any small white beans. Just remember that dried beans yield better texture and flavor compared to canned beans.

How should I store leftover White Bean And Tomato Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze White Bean And Tomato Soup in portioned freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure the soup is completely cooled before transferring it to the freezer. To thaw, simply place it in the fridge overnight or reheat directly from frozen on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth as needed for consistency.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, no need to worry! Simply add a bit of hot water or vegetable stock gradually while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This will help restore the soup to its creamy and inviting texture.

Is this soup suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This White Bean And Tomato Soup is naturally vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. Always check ingredient labels for any potential allergens, especially if you’re serving guests with specific dietary needs.

How can I enhance the flavor of my soup?
To take it up a notch, consider using homemade vegetable stock instead of water for the base. You can also blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture or add fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving. For a kick, add more chili flakes to suit your taste!