Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
Highlighted under: Natural Meals
I absolutely love coming home to the warm, comforting smell of this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup. It’s been one of my go-to recipes for cozy days when I want something nutritious without putting in too much effort. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and hearty white beans creates a delightful flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. This soup is not only packed with healthy ingredients but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
When I first made this soup, I wasn't sure how the flavors would meld together. After a long day, the aroma filled my kitchen, and my anticipation grew. The result was a flavorful, hearty soup that warmed not just my body but also my spirits. I love how the slow cooking really enhances the flavor of the tomatoes and fresh basil, creating a beautifully rich base.
One game-changing tip I've discovered is to use fresh herbs whenever possible. They truly elevate the flavor profile and bring a brightness that dried herbs simply can't match. I also like adding a splash of lemon juice right before serving to balance the richness of the beans and tomatoes. It's become a staple in my household and a recipe I can't wait to share with friends and family!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Aromatic blend of basil and tomatoes that satisfies every craving
- Nutritious and hearty, perfect for meal prep
- Convenient slow-cooker method that makes dinner stress-free
Ingredient Spotlight: White Beans
White beans are the star of this soup, providing both texture and nutritional value. They are rich in protein and fiber, making this dish filling and satisfying. I recommend using cannellini or great northern beans for their creamy consistency. If you're short on time, canned beans, as listed in the recipe, are a convenient choice. Just be sure to rinse and drain them to remove excess sodium and improve flavor, enhancing the soup's overall quality.
If you're looking to mix things up, consider using different types of beans. Chickpeas can add a nutty flavor, while navy beans offer a slightly sweeter taste. However, keep in mind that you may want to adjust cooking times slightly if alternating your beans, as some varieties may cook faster than others.
Flavor Development Techniques
For optimal flavor, consider sautéing the diced onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil before adding them to the crockpot. This simple step allows the onions to become translucent and sweetens the garlic, leading to deeper flavors in your soup. If you're short on time, skip this step but know that the aromatics will still infuse during the slow-cooking process.
Don't hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs! Fresh basil adds a lovely fragrance that perks up the soup, but feel free to add fresh parsley or thyme towards the end of cooking for a different flavor profile. If using dried herbs, such as oregano, remember that they are more concentrated than fresh, so a little goes a long way—just a teaspoon is usually sufficient.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your soup heavenly!
Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (28 oz)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
Combine all these delicious ingredients to create a wholesome meal!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a comforting soup that will warm your heart.
Prepare the ingredients
In your crockpot, add the rinsed white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, and oregano. Stir to combine everything well.
Set the crockpot
Cover the crockpot and set it on low heat for about 8 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Final touches
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, if using. Serve warm with more fresh basil on top!
Your delicious soup is ready to nourish you and your loved ones!
Pro Tips
- For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or a side salad. This soup also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep!
Storage and Meal Prep
This soup is perfect for meal prep! Once it cools, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Divide it into individual portions for easy grab-and-go lunches or cozy dinners throughout the week. Alternatively, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as it will expand when frozen.
When reheating, a gentle approach works best. You can either heat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave in short bursts, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overheating. A splash of additional vegetable broth or water can help loosen the soup if it thickens too much during storage.
Serving Suggestions
For a hearty meal, serve this soup with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The bright acidity from the lemon juice complements the rich flavors beautifully, so consider serving extra lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a zesty kick.
If you'd like to elevate your soup, try garnishing it with fresh basil, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. The cheese melts slightly, adding a wonderful creaminess that balances the soup's natural acidity.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but you'll need to soak and cook the dried beans before adding them to the soup.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based.
→ How can I add more protein to this recipe?
You can add some cooked quinoa or lentils to boost the protein content.
→ Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Yes! Feel free to add veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
I absolutely love coming home to the warm, comforting smell of this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup. It’s been one of my go-to recipes for cozy days when I want something nutritious without putting in too much effort. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and hearty white beans creates a delightful flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. This soup is not only packed with healthy ingredients but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (28 oz)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional)
How-To Steps
In your crockpot, add the rinsed white beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped basil, and oregano. Stir to combine everything well.
Cover the crockpot and set it on low heat for about 8 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, if using. Serve warm with more fresh basil on top!
Extra Tips
- For a heartier meal, serve with crusty bread or a side salad. This soup also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 330mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 12g