Oh, do I have a delightful recipe for you today! Have you ever found yourself in need of a cozy bowl of soup that warms your soul on a chilly day? Look no further than this scrumptious *Feta Sweet Potato and White Bean Soup*. It’s not just any soup; it’s the kind that fills your home with a fragrant bouquet of spices, beckoning everyone to the kitchen. I can still remember the first time I made this soup. It was a rainy afternoon, and I had a bunch of sweet potatoes sitting on my counter looking lonely. I threw this together—all in one pot—and it turned out to be an absolute hit with my friends!
What makes this soup truly special is the balance of creamy coconut milk, hearty sweet potatoes, and the tangy crumbles of feta cheese that really elevate its flavor profile. Plus, you know how much I love meals that come together in a single pot—fewer dishes for me to wash, and I get to enjoy more time sipping this gorgeous soup!
What’s in Feta Sweet Potato and White Bean Soup?
– Sweet Potato: This lovely veggie is the star of the show. Rich in vitamins and naturally sweet, sweet potatoes add a creamy texture to the soup once cooked.
– White Beans: Perfect for adding protein and fiber, these beans are a nice contrast in texture and elevate the heartiness factor. I often use cannellini, but navy beans are equally delightful.
– Onion: A classic base ingredient, onions add depth and flavor. I prefer yellow onions for their balanced sweetness.
– Garlic: Because, let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better! It adds that aromatic kick we all crave.
– Kale or Spinach: These greens are a fabulous way to sneak in some nutrients, plus they wilt down so nicely in the soup. I love using kale because it maintains a bit of its texture, but spinach is great if you’re looking for something lighter.
– Vegetable Broth: A solid foundation for any soup, this adds the necessary liquid and flavor. Homemade is best, but store-bought works just fine, too.
– Coconut Milk: This adds a creamy element with a hint of sweetness. If you prefer, regular milk can do the job, but where’s the fun in that?
– Olive Oil: For sautĂ©ing those onions and garlic to perfection.
– Dried Thyme & Smoked Paprika: These spices bring warmth and complexity to the dish.
– Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A dash of heat to brighten up the flavors—feel free to adjust based on your spice tolerance!
– Feta Cheese: Crumbled on top for a tangy finish that adds just the right amount of zing.
– Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro works wonders for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Is Feta Sweet Potato and White Bean Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also loaded with health advantages:
– Sweet Potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. They’re great for your immune system and skin.
– White Beans are fantastic for cardiovascular health, thanks to their protein and fiber content which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full.
– Kale (or Spinach) adds a burst of nutrients including vitamins K, A, and C, along with minerals.
– Coconut Milk provides healthy fats, which are key for nutrient absorption and making you feel satiated.
– The herbs not only add flavor but are also rich in antioxidants.
Just a note: while this soup is nutritious, be mindful about the feta cheese if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Ingredients
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) white beans (cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
– 1 cup onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk (or regular milk for less sweetness)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– Fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish
This recipe serves about 4-6 people, so it’s perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch throughout the week.
How to Make Feta Sweet Potato and White Bean Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
2. Next, toss in the diced sweet potato along with the thyme, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir it up and let it cook for another 5 minutes. You want to start softening that sweet potato.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the whole mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for about 15-20 minutes until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
4. Add in the white beans and kale (or spinach). Stir in the coconut milk and let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until everything is heated through and the greens look lovely and wilted.
5. Finally, take it off the heat and mix in the crumbled feta cheese.
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle more of feta if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy your comforting bowl of goodness!
Cozy Comfort Soup Tips
– If you like a bit more creaminess, feel free to add more coconut milk. Or, try stirring in a little cream cheese for a different twist.
– This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days, so it’s great for meal prep!
– Mix up the toppings! Try adding avocado slices, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or even some toasted nuts for texture.
– If you have extra vegetables on hand, feel free to toss those in as well. Carrots, peppers, or zucchini would all work beautifully!
I hope you give this Feta Sweet Potato and White Bean Soup a whirl! It’s one of those recipes that will find its way into your regular rotation—trust me! When you make it, let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking!
