Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Collection
I’m always looking for nourishing meals that require minimal effort, which is why I love this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it comes together effortlessly in my slow cooker, leaving me free to enjoy my day. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy white beans creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s become a staple in my home — perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
This soup has a special place in my heart because it’s not just quick to prepare, but the slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. I remember the first time I made it, I was amazed by how the simple ingredients transformed into a rich, hearty dish. The longer you let it simmer, the better it becomes!
One tip I’ve learned is to add a splash of lemon juice right before serving — it brightens the whole dish and enhances the flavors. And don’t forget to top it with fresh basil; it truly elevates the soup to the next level!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and comforting flavor profile
- Packed with nutritious ingredients
- Effortless slow-cooked goodness
Understanding the Ingredients
The primary ingredients in this soup are white beans, tomatoes, and fresh basil, each contributing unique properties that make the dish both nourishing and flavorful. The white beans provide a creamy texture and are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making this soup filling and satisfying. If you wish to substitute the white beans, navy beans or cannellini beans can be used interchangeably, maintaining the soup's hearty quality.
The use of fresh basil elevates the flavor profile, adding an aromatic quality that's particularly appealing. If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use one teaspoon of dried basil, though the flavor may not be as vibrant. Canned tomatoes can be used for convenience, but if you opt for fresh, choose ripe tomatoes and blanch them briefly to remove the skins, enhancing the soup’s texture.
Cooking Technique Tips
When using a crockpot, it's crucial to layer the ingredients properly to ensure even cooking. Start with the beans and tomatoes at the bottom, which helps prevent scorching and allows for more robust flavor development. Avoid adding salt too early in the cooking process, as this can toughen the beans; instead, add it towards the end for the best flavor balance.
For the best results, take care not to overfill your crockpot; ideally, it should be no more than two-thirds full. This ensures that the heat circulates evenly and allows for proper cooking. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze portions for up to three months, making it easy to enjoy this delicious soup any day.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all these fresh ingredients for a wholesome soup experience!
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. If you're using fresh tomatoes, chop them into small pieces as well.
Combine Everything in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, add the drained white beans, diced tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Cook on Low
Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy
Once done, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Enjoy your homemade soup with some crusty bread or a side salad!
Pro Tips
- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup is perfect on its own, but there are plenty of ways to enhance your serving experience. Consider pairing it with crusty whole-grain bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. For a bit of extra flavor and texture, add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving, or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for a savory touch.
If you're in the mood for a more substantial meal, serve the soup over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice to boost the protein content and add a delightful chewy texture. Both these options complement the richness of the soup beautifully, making it a satisfying dish for lunch or dinner.
Flavor Variations
Experimenting with flavors is a delightful way to make this soup your own. For instance, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish a mild heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy beans and tomatoes. Alternatively, including diced carrots or celery at the beginning adds a natural sweetness and enhances the soup’s overall depth.
For those who enjoy a smokier flavor, incorporating a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few dashes of liquid smoke can add a fantastic twist. This small change can transform the soup from comforting to adventurous while still keeping it healthy and delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes will add a delightful taste to the soup, just make sure they're ripe.
→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you're ready to eat.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
→ Can I substitute the white beans?
Yes, you can substitute with chickpeas or lentils if you prefer, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
I’m always looking for nourishing meals that require minimal effort, which is why I love this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it comes together effortlessly in my slow cooker, leaving me free to enjoy my day. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy white beans creates a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and refreshing. It’s become a staple in my home — perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.
Created by: Prudence Whitby
Recipe Type: Clean Healthy Food Collection
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Healthy Crockpot Tomato Basil White Bean Soup
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Start by dicing the onion and mincing the garlic. If you're using fresh tomatoes, chop them into small pieces as well.
In your crockpot, add the drained white beans, diced tomatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, vegetable broth, chopped basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Set the crockpot to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once done, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Extra Tips
- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Total Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 9g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 9g