Lemon White Bean Soup (Fasolada)
This light and refreshing take on the classic Greek bean soup is packed with vegetables and finished with a bright citrusy touch. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal!
This light and refreshing take on the classic Greek bean soup is packed with vegetables and finished with a bright citrusy touch. Perfect for a comforting and nutritious meal!
Info
Prep Time:
10mCook Time:
75mDifficulty Level:
Ingredients
- ½ cup olive oil
- 500g (1 lb) white beans (medium or small)
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 bunch green onions, finely chopped (including green tops)
- 2 liters (8 cups) hot water
- 1 small potato, grated
- 1 bunch celery leaves, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- ½ bunch dill, chopped
- Salt & freshly ground pepper
- 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
- 1 bunch sorrel (or spinach/kale), chopped
- Juice of 2 lemons
Directions
Prepare the Beans
Unlike traditional bean soups, there’s no need to soak the beans overnight.
Place the beans in a large pot, cover with plenty of cold water, and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Simmer for 35-40 minutes, until partially softened, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In a deep pot, heat 3 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the onions, carrots, and celery, stirring to coat with oil.
Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until slightly softened.
Simmer the Soup
Add the parboiled beans and pour in enough hot water to cover the ingredients by 4-5 cm (2 inches).
Stir in the grated potato, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes, until the beans are fully tender.
Final Touch
Season with salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes.
Stir in the dill, celery leaves, Swiss chard, sorrel, and green onions.
Pour in the remaining olive oil, which enhances both flavor and texture.
Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the broth thickens into a creamy, velvety consistency.
Finish with fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed.
Recipe Tips
If you have leftovers, the next day you can turn the fasolada into a nutritious rice-and-bean dish by adding a little rice and extra water.