Spring Green Bean And Herb Soup

Name: Spring Green Bean And Herb Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Ideas

As the weather warms up, I find myself craving fresh, vibrant dishes, and this Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup fits the bill perfectly. Bursting with the flavors of spring, this soup is a delightful blend of tender green beans and aromatic herbs that creates a refreshing dish. I love how quickly it comes together, making it ideal for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. This is one of those nourishing soups that you can enjoy hot or cold, perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-02-16T07:55:37.030Z

When I first made this soup, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients transformed into something truly remarkable. The fresh green beans have such a bright flavor, and combining them with herbs like basil and parsley elevates the dish dramatically. I recommend using freshly picked beans, as they tend to have a more vibrant color and taste.

One tip I learned is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding the beans. This step gives the soup a deeper flavor base that really enhances the overall dish. I often add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for an extra pop of freshness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A vibrant blend of flavors that celebrates spring
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any day of the week
Versatile enough to be served hot or cold

The Role of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs are the stars of this Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup. Both basil and parsley contribute significantly to the overall flavor profile. Basil adds a sweet, peppery element that brightens the dish, while parsley introduces earthy undertones that balance the sweetness of the beans. Be generous with these herbs; as they wilt, they'll release aromatic oils that will infuse the soup, creating a vibrant taste and fragrant aroma. If you're short on fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount by about one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

When adding the herbs, consider the timing; stir them in after blending the soup to maintain their fresh flavor and color. Incorporating them at the end allows for a burst of freshness with every bowl served. If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with other herbs like mint or cilantro for a different twist!

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the right texture in this soup is crucial. After simmering, the green beans should be tender but still slightly firm. Overcooking can lead to mushy beans, which lose their vibrant green color and fresh taste. Keep an eye on them while simmering; aim for about 15 minutes, then check periodically. You want a slight bite left in the beans so they provide some substance in the smooth soup.

Using an immersion blender is the best method for pureeing the soup because it allows you to control the consistency more easily. You can blend it completely or leave some chunks for added texture. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer portions in batches to a countertop blender, just be sure to let the steam escape to avoid any hot splashes.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider preparing the soup without the herbs. Stir in fresh basil and parsley just before serving to maintain their flavor and vibrancy. This approach not only preserves the soup's freshness but also enhances the presentation when serving guests.

For serving, consider topping the soup with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a few extra herbs at the end can elevate the dish and impress your guests or family. If you like a kick, a small pinch of red pepper flakes can add warmth and complexity that complements the bright flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook Green Beans

Stir in the chopped green beans and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the beans to soften slightly.

Add Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until the beans are tender, around 15 minutes.

Blend and Serve

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Stir in the chopped basil and parsley. Adjust seasoning and add lemon juice if desired. Serve hot or chilled.

Pro Tips

For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of sour cream when serving.

Ingredient Variations

Don't hesitate to get creative with the ingredients; this soup is quite flexible! If you have leftover asparagus or peas, feel free to toss them in during the cooking process to enhance the green flavors. Similarly, if you're looking to boost the protein content, adding white beans or chickpeas will give the soup a hearty texture and richness. Just be mindful of adding more broth to maintain consistency.

For a dairy-free version, it’s perfectly fine to skip the yogurt or cream. Instead, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy, while blending in a raw cashew cream before serving can add creaminess.

Freezing Your Soup

This soup can be frozen for up to three months, making it an excellent meal prep option. To freeze, ensure the soup cools completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label your containers with the date for easy tracking. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

When reheating, taste the soup again; sometimes freezing can dull flavors. You may need to adjust with additional salt, lemon juice, or fresh herbs just before serving to regain that vibrant flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as all ingredients used are gluten-free.

→ How can I store the leftover soup?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just reheat before serving.