This White Bean Soup is creamy, hearty, and zesty—comforting yet light, thanks to its base of blended white beans, flavorful green chiles, and a touch of lime. Packed with plant-based protein and bold spices like cumin and coriander, it’s a satisfying, easy-to-make vegan soup that comes together in under an hour. Top with avocado, jalapeños, and cilantro for added color, texture, and flavor—perfect for a healthy lunch or cozy weeknight dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

4½ cups cooked white beans (3 [14-oz] cans), divided
4 cups vegetable broth, divided
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
1 poblano pepper, stemmed, seeded, and diced
1¼ teaspoons sea salt
1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles
4 garlic cloves, chopped
1½ teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground coriander
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, plus wedges for serving
Freshly ground black pepper

Optional Toppings:

Fresh cilantro
Sliced jalapeños or serrano peppers
Diced avocado
Sliced scallions
Vegan sour cream or Greek yogurt
Pickled red onions
Crushed tortilla chips

Directions

Blend Beans: In a blender, puree half of the white beans (2¼ cups) with ¾ cup of vegetable broth until smooth. Set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, poblano, salt, and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add Flavor: Stir in green chiles, garlic, cumin, oregano, and coriander. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Simmer: Add remaining beans (2¼ cups) and 3¼ cups broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
Thicken Soup: Stir in the bean puree and simmer uncovered for an additional 20 minutes.
Finish: Remove from heat and stir in lime juice. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and more lime if desired.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes.

Nutrients

Calories: ~250–300 kcal per serving
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

A Celebration of Beans and Bold Flavors

White beans are the unsung heroes of the pantry—mild yet creamy, adaptable yet substantial. In this soup, they’re used two ways: half are blended into a smooth puree to provide body and creaminess, while the other half are left whole to give texture and substance. This technique ensures every spoonful is both velvety and chunky, making the soup feel indulgent even without dairy or added thickeners.

But what truly makes this white bean soup stand out is its depth of flavor. Aromatics like garlic, onion, and poblano pepper are gently sautéed in olive oil until golden and fragrant. Then come the seasonings: earthy cumin, warm coriander, and dried oregano, all of which add layers of complexity to the base. The addition of diced green chiles introduces a smoky, mild heat that complements the beans beautifully, while fresh lime juice lifts everything with its bright, citrusy zing.

The Role of the Poblano Pepper and Green Chiles

Unlike the more fiery jalapeño, poblano peppers offer a mellow smokiness that’s ideal for slow-cooked dishes like soups and stews. When diced and sautéed, they soften and deepen in flavor, pairing perfectly with the creaminess of the beans. Alongside canned green chiles, which bring a gentle tang and a slight sharpness, the poblanos help transform this soup from bland to boldly aromatic.

Together, these two types of peppers create a subtle, nuanced heat that won’t overpower the palate, making the dish approachable for spice-sensitive eaters while still offering enough kick for those who enjoy some excitement in their meals. For those who prefer more fire, toppings like jalapeños or serrano peppers are a perfect addition.

A Plant-Based Powerhouse of Nutrition

This soup isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutrition. White beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing essential amino acids to help support muscle repair, metabolism, and immune function. They’re also loaded with fiber, which promotes digestive health, supports blood sugar regulation, and helps keep you feeling full longer.

In addition to their protein and fiber, white beans contain iron, folate, magnesium, and other micronutrients essential for overall wellness. The vegetables and herbs used in this recipe contribute additional nutrients—poblano peppers bring vitamin C and antioxidants, while onions and garlic offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

The olive oil used in the base is a heart-healthy fat that enhances flavor and aids in nutrient absorption. Toppings like avocado provide even more healthy fats, while lime juice delivers a refreshing dose of vitamin C. When served with a handful of tortilla chips or alongside a crusty piece of whole-grain bread, this soup becomes a complete, well-balanced meal.

Topping Ideas for Customization

One of the best things about this white bean soup is how versatile it is when it comes to toppings. If you’re looking for crunch, a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips adds a satisfying texture. Want something creamy and cooling? Diced avocado or a dollop of vegan sour cream does the trick. Need an extra zing? Pickled red onions or more fresh lime juice offer brightness and acidity.

Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or scallions are perfect for enhancing the green, earthy flavors already present in the soup, while thinly sliced jalapeños or serranos offer an extra layer of heat. You can also drizzle the top with chili oil or olive oil for richness or add grated vegan cheese if you’re looking for more indulgence.

These toppings allow every person at the table to personalize their bowl, making this a fun and interactive dish for casual gatherings or family dinners.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

White Bean Soup is a dream for meal preppers and busy households. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, and add your favorite toppings just before serving.

It’s also freezer-friendly. Divide it into individual portions, store it in freezer-safe containers, and thaw as needed. This makes it an excellent choice for batch cooking, especially during cold weather when having a warm, hearty meal ready to go can be a lifesaver.

For an added meal prep bonus, you can also portion out the toppings separately in small containers, making weekday lunches feel like freshly made dinners every time.

How to Pair White Bean Soup

Though satisfying on its own, this soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. Serve it with warm, grilled bread or garlic toast for dipping. A crisp green salad dressed with citrus vinaigrette can add freshness and crunch, rounding out the meal. For a heartier dinner, pair it with roasted vegetables or a stuffed baked sweet potato.

It also works beautifully as a starter for a Mexican-inspired meal. Follow it with vegetable tacos, enchiladas, or roasted cauliflower fajitas for a deliciously coherent dining experience that’s still entirely plant-based.

Conclusion

This White Bean Soup is more than just a cozy, comforting dish—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, nourishing ingredients, and effortless preparation. Blending creamy beans with zesty lime, mellow peppers, and warm spices, it hits that rare sweet spot of being hearty and wholesome while still light enough to enjoy any time of year. The vegan-friendly recipe is approachable and endlessly customizable, ensuring that everyone at the table can savor it in their own way.

Whether you’re trying to eat more plant-based meals, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or just in need of a healthy, satisfying soup to warm you from the inside out, this recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again. Simple, flavorful, and full of goodness—this is comfort food with a vibrant twist.