White Bean and Leek Soup with Garlic Breadcrumbs

Name: White Bean and Leek Soup with Garlic Breadcrumbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup spinach leaves, chopped; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Everyday Cooking

This creamy White Bean and Leek Soup topped with crispy garlic breadcrumbs is the ultimate comfort food. Perfectly satisfying and packed with flavor, it’s a delightful dish for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-11T20:41:04.801Z

This White Bean and Leek Soup is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of creamy white beans and sweet leeks creates a luscious base, while the garlic breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and comforting with a hint of sweetness from the leeks
Nutritious and filling, perfect for a light lunch or dinner
Topped with crunchy garlic breadcrumbs for added texture

      

The Benefits of White Beans

White beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a perfect choice for vegetarians and vegans. Rich in fiber, white beans aid in digestion and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, making this soup a smart choice for a balanced diet.

Additionally, white beans contain essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and folate. These nutrients are vital for energy production and overall well-being. Incorporating white beans into your meals can improve heart health and enhance your immune system, making them a powerhouse ingredient in this creamy soup.

Leeks: A Flavorful Addition

Leeks are a member of the onion family and contribute a subtle sweetness to this soup. Their mild flavor profile pairs beautifully with the earthiness of white beans, creating a harmonious blend of tastes. Cooking leeks releases their natural sugars, enhancing the soup's overall flavor and making it a comforting dish.

Beyond their taste, leeks are also rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which help combat inflammation and support heart health. Adding leeks to your diet can provide various health benefits while elevating the flavor of your dishes, making them an essential ingredient in this recipe.

Tips for Perfecting Your Soup

To enhance the flavor of your White Bean and Leek Soup, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving. These elements can brighten the soup and add a fresh dimension to the creamy texture.

If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some white beans before blending and stir them back into the pot after pureeing. This adds texture and makes the dish even heartier, perfect for those who enjoy a more rustic style of soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, rinsed and drained
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup spinach leaves, chopped

For the Garlic Breadcrumbs

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Mix and match your favorite herbs for added flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Soup

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the white beans and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Stir in the chopped spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Garlic Breadcrumbs

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and minced garlic, cooking until golden brown and crispy. Season with salt.

Serve the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Ladle into bowls and top with the crispy garlic breadcrumbs. Enjoy!

Garnish with fresh herbs if desired!

Storing and Freezing Soup

This White Bean and Leek Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.

For long-term storage, you can freeze this soup for up to three months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave for an easy, comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your White Bean and Leek Soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. The crunchy garlic breadcrumbs add a delightful texture, but you can also experiment with toppings like croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

For a more substantial dish, consider adding cooked grains such as quinoa or farro to the soup. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also provides a satisfying chew, making your meal even more fulfilling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, the soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

→ What can I substitute for leeks?

You can use onions or shallots as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.