Lynn'S Great Northern Soup
A hearty and flavorful bean soup featuring Great Northern beans, tomatoes, celery, and pasta, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for vegetarians.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except cooked macaroni in a pot and simmer for about one and a half hours.
- Shortly before serving, add the cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version of Lynn's Great Northern Soup, consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the beans before adding them to the soup. Additionally, using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the taste substantially. For a twist, try incorporating a splash of barbecue sauce for a smoky undertone.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lynn's Great Northern Soup warm, garnished with fresh parsley or croutons for added texture. This soup pairs beautifully with a side of Mama's French Fries or a light Tomato-Brussels Sprouts Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider adding a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens too much upon cooling, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lynn'S Great Northern Soup contains roughly 440 calories, with 23g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1357mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried Great Northern beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans! Soak about 1 cup of dried Great Northern beans overnight, then cook them in water until tender before adding them to the soup. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What can I add to make this soup spicier?
To add some heat to Lynn's Great Northern Soup, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to adjust the spice level to their liking.
Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! Lynn's Great Northern Soup is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. It's a hearty and nutritious option that fits well within vegan recipes, making it perfect for those seeking plant-based meal options.
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).