Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
Highlighted under: Smart Meals
I love how this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup warms up my kitchen and my heart. The rich blend of tomatoes and basil fills the air with a delightful aroma that makes my mouth water. Preparing it is as simple as tossing all the ingredients into the crockpot, making it a perfect meal for busy days. Every spoonful is both nourishing and satisfying, providing a comforting experience without any guilt. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, and I hope it becomes a staple in your home too!
When I first tried making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup, I was surprised at how effortless it was. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; all you need to do is gather fresh ingredients and let them do their magic together in the slow cooker. The blend of creamy white beans with the bright flavor of tomatoes and basil is a perfect match that never disappoints.
I discovered that the longer you let the soup simmer, the deeper the flavors become. For an extra twist, I like to add a squeeze of lemon just before serving—this elevates the taste and adds a refreshing zing! It's a delightful dish that I've come to cherish in my home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The vibrant flavors of fresh basil and tomatoes create a hearty, comforting soup.
- Creamy white beans add a rich texture and boost protein content.
- Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or spices.
The Role of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh basil in this soup elevates its flavor profile significantly. While dried basil is convenient, fresh basil brings a vibrant, aromatic note that is essential in creating a bright, satisfying soup. I recommend adding the fresh basil during the cooking process, as its essential oils release into the broth, enriching every spoonful. If you're unable to find fresh basil, consider using a mix of dried herbs like basil and thyme, but be sure to cut their amounts in half because dried herbs are more concentrated.
The diced tomatoes in this soup serve as both the base and star ingredient, providing acidity and sweetness. Opt for canned tomatoes that include no added sugar or salt, as this allows you to control the flavor better. If possible, choose fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an additional layer of smokiness. Alternatively, fresh tomatoes can be used, especially during peak season; about 6-8 medium tomatoes should suffice. Just be sure to finely dice them to ensure they break down properly while cooking.
Cooking Techniques Made Simple
When layering ingredients in the crockpot, I recommend placing the harder vegetables like onions and garlic on the bottom, followed by the beans and tomatoes. This allows for better heat distribution as everything cooks. The crockpot does most of the work for you, but stirring halfway through cooking can help mix the flavors more thoroughly. If your soup seems too thick upon completion, don't hesitate to thin it out with a little more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
If you have leftover soup, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheating is easy—just warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until it's bubbly, or in the microwave in short intervals. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions. This allows you to enjoy a quick, healthy meal later on. Just be sure to leave a little space in the container, as the soup may expand when frozen.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup:
Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready for your crockpot!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup:
Prepare the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rinsed white beans, diced tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, and chopped basil.
Season the Soup
Add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
Cook in the Crockpot
Transfer everything to the crockpot and cover. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try roasting the garlic and tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This will enhance their sweetness and give the soup a deeper flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup can be enjoyed on its own, but I love pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a more fulfilling meal. Top the soup with grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add a creamy element that complements the soup's flavors. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can enhance the dish and provide a beautiful presentation.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the bowl at the end for a little heat. If you're adventurous, toss in some sautéed kale or spinach a few minutes before serving to boost the nutrient density without compromising flavor.
Variations and Customization
The beauty of this soup is its versatility. You can easily add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes as the other ingredients to ensure even cooking. Adding a cup of cooked quinoa or brown rice can also provide extra substance, making it heartier if you prefer a more filling meal.
For a different flavor profile, consider substituting the white beans with chickpeas or lentils, which will offer a unique texture. If you're looking to make this soup a meal prep favorite, doubling the recipe will not only feed a crowd but also give you delicious leftovers for several days.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrients and flavors.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup is completely vegan and packed with plant-based goodness!
→ How do I make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider including red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you prepare the ingredients.
Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
I love how this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup warms up my kitchen and my heart. The rich blend of tomatoes and basil fills the air with a delightful aroma that makes my mouth water. Preparing it is as simple as tossing all the ingredients into the crockpot, making it a perfect meal for busy days. Every spoonful is both nourishing and satisfying, providing a comforting experience without any guilt. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you, and I hope it becomes a staple in your home too!
Created by: Honor Blackwell
Recipe Type: Smart Meals
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cans of white beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 cans of diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine the rinsed white beans, diced tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, and chopped basil.
Add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
Transfer everything to the crockpot and cover. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try roasting the garlic and tomatoes before adding them to the soup. This will enhance their sweetness and give the soup a deeper flavor profile.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 10g