Ham And White Bean Soup
A hearty ham and white bean soup packed with fresh vegetables and savory flavors. This comforting dish combines tender ham, creamy beans, and vibrant greens, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep. Rich, wholesome, and easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice and sauté celery, onion, carrots, zucchini, and ham in a Dutch oven with olive oil and seasoning.
- Stir in stewed tomatoes, chicken broth, spinach, one can of beans (smashed), and two cups of water. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the remaining beans and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a bay leaf while simmering. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the taste. If you have leftover vegetables, feel free to throw them in for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory touch. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a side of Cheese And Chile Dip for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To freeze, transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers and it can last for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup and warm it on the stove until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And White Bean Soup contains roughly 738 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use dried beans! Just soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the soup. Keep in mind that you'll need to adjust the cooking time, as dried beans take longer to soften.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables. Alternatively, a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor without overpowering the dish.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup holds up well for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and portion it into individual servings. Just remember to leave out the spinach until you're ready to reheat to keep it fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).