This cannellini white bean soup with Swiss chard is a hearty and nourishing dish that combines creamy white beans with vibrant greens in a well-seasoned broth.
The beans bring a mild, buttery texture, while the Swiss chard adds a slightly earthy, fresh contrast. Infused with aromatics like garlic, onions, and herbs, this soup delivers deep, satisfying flavors with every spoonful.
Whether you’re looking for a warming meal on a cool evening or a nutritious dish packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both comforting and wholesome. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep.
Why This White Bean Soup Stands Out
This soup is simple, comforting, and full of natural goodness.
- Packed with plant-based protein from creamy cannellini beans.
- Swiss chard adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that balances the richness.
- Garlic, onions, and herbs infuse depth into the broth, creating a savory foundation.
- A thick, creamy consistency without any dairy, thanks to naturally starchy beans.
- Easy to customize with extra vegetables, grains, or protein for a complete meal.
A bowl of this soup is satisfying, well-balanced, and easy to enjoy any time of the year.
Key Ingredients That Make This Soup Flavorful
Each ingredient plays a role in creating a rich, well-rounded taste while keeping the soup nutritious and filling.
- Cannellini Beans – Soft and creamy, these white beans thicken the broth while adding protein and fiber.
- Swiss Chard – A leafy green with a mild bitterness that complements the richness of the beans.
- Garlic & Onion – Essential aromatics that create a strong, flavorful base.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth – A light but flavorful liquid that ties everything together.
- Thyme & Rosemary – Herbs that enhance the depth of the soup with earthy, fragrant notes.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and adding richness to the broth.
- Lemon Juice (Optional) – A splash at the end brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
These simple yet effective ingredients work together to create a soup that is both nourishing and full of flavor.
How to Cook Cannellini White Bean Soup with Swiss Chard
Each step in this recipe enhances the texture and depth of flavor for a delicious, well-balanced soup.
- Sauté the Aromatics for a Rich Base – Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Simmer the Beans and Broth for Depth – Stir in the drained cannellini beans, broth, thyme, and rosemary. Let the soup simmer to allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend a Portion for Creaminess – Use an immersion blender to puree a small portion of the beans directly in the pot. This thickens the broth while keeping some beans whole for texture.
- Stir in Swiss Chard Until Tender – Add chopped Swiss chard leaves and let them wilt into the hot soup. The greens soften while maintaining a slight bite.
- Finish with a Splash of Lemon Juice – A small amount of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the dish.
- Serve and Enjoy – Ladle into bowls and top with a drizzle of olive oil, grated parmesan, or toasted bread.
This process ensures each ingredient shines while creating a creamy, well-balanced soup.
Ways to Customize Your Soup
This soup is already nutritious and flavorful, but a few adjustments can help tailor it to your taste.
- Want a heartier texture? Add cooked farro, quinoa, or brown rice for extra bite.
- Prefer a spicier kick? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños.
- Looking for more protein? Stir in shredded chicken or cooked sausage.
- Need a dairy-free version? Skip the parmesan and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Want a richer broth? Use a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream for extra creaminess.
This soup is incredibly versatile and easy to modify, making it perfect for different preferences and dietary needs.
Best Side Dishes for White Bean Soup
Pairing this soup with the right side dish creates a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Side Dish | Why It Works |
---|---|
Crusty Sourdough | The crisp texture pairs perfectly with the creamy soup. |
Roasted Vegetables | Adds extra flavor and a caramelized bite. |
Garlic Bread | Buttery, aromatic, and perfect for dipping. |
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad | Provides a fresh contrast to the warm soup. |
Herb Focaccia | Absorbs the broth while adding a savory touch. |
Pairing the soup with any of these sides enhances the overall dining experience while adding different textures and flavors.
Pro Tips for the Best Cannellini White Bean Soup
For the best texture and flavor, follow these tips:
- Sauté the aromatics properly – Cooking onions and garlic slowly releases their natural sweetness.
- Blend just a portion of the soup – This thickens the broth while keeping a hearty texture.
- Use high-quality beans – If using canned, rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
- Let the soup rest before serving – The flavors intensify after sitting for a few minutes.
- Add Swiss chard at the end – This keeps the greens bright and slightly crisp.
With these simple techniques, you’ll achieve a creamy, deeply flavorful soup that’s both healthy and satisfying.
Cannellini White Bean Soup with Swiss Chard
Equipment
- Large pot For simmering the soup
- Immersion Blender For partially blending the soup
- Ladle For serving the soup
Ingredients
- 2 cans cannellini beans drained and rinsed
- 1 bunch Swiss chard stems removed, leaves chopped
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- 1/2 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional, for brightness
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender, puree a portion of the soup until smooth, leaving some beans whole for texture.
- Stir in the chopped Swiss chard and let it wilt for about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Stir well and let the flavors meld for another 2 minutes.
- Ladle into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
- For a heartier texture, add cooked farro or quinoa.
- If you prefer a spicier version, stir in red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.