Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup 🍲🌱

This heartwarming soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends! The tender, homemade meatballs are packed with flavor and combined with nutritious spinach and creamy white beans to create a fulfilling dish that warms both the body and soul. Serve it with a crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese for an irresistible meal! 🥖🧀

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works great!)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed (for the soup)
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Make the Meatballs

1. In a mixing bowl, mash the drained white beans until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

🥄 For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs or spices of your choice into the meatball mixture!

Prepare the Soup

6. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
8. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes along with their juices. Bring to a simmer.
9. Add the second can of white beans, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
10. Stir in the fresh spinach until wilted, then add the baked meatballs to the pot.
11. Squeeze in the lemon juice just before serving for freshness.

🍋 Adjust the lemon juice to your taste; it adds brightness, but you can use less if you prefer a milder flavor.

Serve

12. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
13. Enjoy your hearty soup with crusty bread or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese!

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs. Check your vegetable broth and canned tomatoes to ensure they are gluten-free as well. 🌾❌
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes while cooking the vegetables or mix in diced jalapeños into the meatball mixture for a kick! 🔥
• Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream right before serving for a richer soup base. 🥥
• Vegetarian: Replace the meatballs with additional veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a lighter version! 🥒

This Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household—so grab a bowl and dig in! 🍽️🌟