Spring Green Bean And Herb Soup

Name: Spring Green Bean And Herb Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium potato, peeled and diced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy Plate Inspirations

I absolutely love making this Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup during the fresh, vibrant season of spring. The combination of tender green beans and fragrant herbs creates a delightful bowl of warmth that’s both nourishing and satisfying. With each spoonful, the natural sweetness of the beans shines through, while the herbs add a touch of brightness that makes the flavors pop. It’s a go-to recipe for light lunch or a simple dinner, making it easy to enjoy the bounty of the season in every bite.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-02-16T05:05:36.878Z

When I first tried making this Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup, I was surprised by how just a handful of fresh ingredients could create such a vibrant dish. The key is to use the freshest green beans you can find, as their natural sweetness is enhanced by the gentle simmering process. I also like to blend part of the soup for a creamy texture, while leaving some whole beans for added texture.

And don’t skip on the herbs! Whether it’s basil, parsley, or chives, each brings its unique flavor to the mix. On my last attempt, I experimented by adding a hint of lemon juice at the end, which really elevated the entire dish. It’s a perfect way to celebrate spring flavors!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and fresh flavors that capture the essence of spring
Creamy soup with a burst of texture from whole green beans
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

Elevating Flavor with Fresh Herbs

The use of fresh herbs like basil and parsley in this Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup truly elevates the overall flavor profile. Fresh basil, with its slightly sweet and peppery notes, complements the earthy taste of the potatoes and the natural sweetness of the green beans. Be sure to chop the herbs just before adding them to the soup to maintain their vibrant color and maximum aroma, releasing their essential oils for a more pronounced fragrance.

If you love experimenting with flavors, consider adding other herbs like dill or chervil to diversify the taste. These herbs can lend their unique character to the soup, aligning perfectly with the spring theme. Remember to adjust the quantity based on your preference, as certain herbs, like dill, can be quite strong.

Perfecting Consistency

One of the highlights of this soup is achieving the right texture. When using an immersion blender, determine how smooth you want the soup to be based on your preference. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only half of the pot to retain texture while still incorporating some creaminess. A good indicator is seeing the potatoes break down into creamy bits while the whole green beans remain intact.

If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer half of the soup to a traditional blender, blend it until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Just make sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid explosions of hot liquid.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is an excellent make-ahead option; it actually benefits from sitting for a few hours or overnight. The flavors meld beautifully when stored, allowing the herbs to infuse into the soup more deeply. If preparing ahead, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it up slowly on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens more than desired.

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients to prepare a delicious bowl of soup:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1 inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

With these ingredients, you are ready to create a delightful and wholesome soup.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Add the Vegetables

Stir in the diced potato and green beans, cooking for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour in the Broth

Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Blend and Add Herbs

Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup to your desired consistency. Stir in the chopped basil and parsley, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes.

Finish and Serve

If desired, add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs.

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this easy soup!

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. It pairs beautifully with the herbs and green beans.

Serving Suggestions

This Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup is wonderfully versatile—serve it warm alongside crusty bread for a satisfying lunch or complete dinner. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory touch that complements the herbs beautifully. Alternatively, a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream can provide a creamy balance to the soup’s vibrant flavors.

For a finishing touch, consider drizzling with a little high-quality olive oil just before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces an extra layer of richness that pairs well with the fresh ingredients.

Dietary Substitutions

If you're looking to make this soup vegan, simply swap the chicken broth for a high-quality vegetable broth. For a lower-carb option, you can reduce or even omit the potato, relying on the green beans and broth as the main components. Alternatively, cauliflower can be used as a substitute for potato, providing a similar creaminess without the carbs.

For added protein, consider tossing in some cooked white beans or chickpeas towards the end of cooking. This not only makes the soup heartier but also contributes additional fiber, making it even more satisfying for a light dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, you can substitute fresh green beans with frozen ones. Just add them to the pot during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

→ What herbs can I use besides basil and parsley?

Feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill, thyme, or even cilantro for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

Simply use vegetable broth and omit any dairy products. This soup is naturally delicious as is!