Hearty Kale and Vegetable Soup

Featured in: Home Cooking Notes

This hearty kale soup combines nutrient-dense greens with protein-packed cannellini beans and tender root vegetables in a warming vegetable broth. Seasoned with thyme, cumin, and a hint of lemon, it's naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner, this satisfying soup comes together in under an hour with simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients.

Updated on Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:30:57 GMT
A steaming bowl of homemade Kale Soup, packed with tender kale, diced carrots, and creamy cannellini beans in a savory vegetable broth. Save
A steaming bowl of homemade Kale Soup, packed with tender kale, diced carrots, and creamy cannellini beans in a savory vegetable broth. | douxzrire.com

This nourishing Kale Soup is a hearty, wellness-focused meal that brings together the earthy flavors of fresh greens and root vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it provides a satisfying balance of protein-rich beans and nutrient-dense kale in every spoonful.

A steaming bowl of homemade Kale Soup, packed with tender kale, diced carrots, and creamy cannellini beans in a savory vegetable broth. Save
A steaming bowl of homemade Kale Soup, packed with tender kale, diced carrots, and creamy cannellini beans in a savory vegetable broth. | douxzrire.com

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With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, this recipe is an accessible option for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. The combination of carrots, celery, and potato creates a rustic base that is both filling and flavorful.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 large potato, peeled and diced
  • 6 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.
Step 2
Stir in the garlic, carrots, celery, and potato. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3
Add the chopped kale and sauté for 2 minutes until slightly wilted.
Step 4
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the thyme, cumin, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Step 5
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
Step 6
Stir in the cannellini beans and simmer for 5 more minutes to heat through.
Step 7
Add lemon juice, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the best texture, make sure to remove the tough stems from the kale before chopping. Simmering the soup uncovered allows the flavors to concentrate while the root vegetables soften to perfection.

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Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily customize this soup by swapping cannellini beans for chickpeas or lentils. For those who aren't following a vegetarian diet, adding diced cooked chicken or turkey is an excellent way to increase the protein content.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty gluten-free bread to soak up the savory broth. For an extra touch of richness, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes a wonderful topping if you are not following a vegan diet.

Hearty vegetarian Kale Soup served in a rustic ceramic bowl, garnished with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of black pepper. Save
Hearty vegetarian Kale Soup served in a rustic ceramic bowl, garnished with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of black pepper. | douxzrire.com

This easy Kale Soup recipe provides 4 servings, each containing 225 calories and 8 grams of protein. It is a reliable, wholesome choice for a healthy lifestyle, offering comfort and nutrition in a single bowl.

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Recipe Questions

Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, chickpeas, white beans, or lentils work wonderfully as substitutes for cannellini beans in this soup.

How do I store leftover kale soup?

Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply reheat on the stovetop before serving.

What can I substitute for kale?

Spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens are excellent alternatives. Add spinach in the last few minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Is this soup naturally gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on vegetable broth and canned beans to ensure they're certified gluten-free.

How can I make the soup creamier?

Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in, or add a splash of coconut milk or cream for extra richness.

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Hearty Kale and Vegetable Soup

Wholesome kale, beans, and root vegetables simmered in savory broth for a nourishing, comforting bowl.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Overall Time
50 minutes
Created by Doux Zrire Tabitha Jones

Meal Type Home Cooking Notes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style International

Portion Size 4 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Plant-Based, No Dairy, Contains No Gluten

What You'll Need

Vegetables

01 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 1 large onion, finely chopped
03 2 garlic cloves, minced
04 3 medium carrots, diced
05 2 celery stalks, diced
06 1 large potato, peeled and diced
07 6 cups fresh kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

Legumes

01 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

Liquids

01 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
02 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Spices and Seasonings

01 1 teaspoon dried thyme
02 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
03 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
04 Pinch of red pepper flakes, optional

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 01

Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3 minutes until translucent.

Step 02

Build flavor base: Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, diced celery, and diced potato. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 03

Wilt the kale: Add chopped kale and sauté for 2 minutes until slightly wilted.

Step 04

Add broth and seasonings: Pour vegetable broth into the pot and add thyme, cumin, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 05

Simmer vegetables: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 06

Incorporate beans: Stir in drained cannellini beans and simmer for 5 additional minutes to heat through.

Step 07

Finish and serve: Add lemon juice and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately while hot.

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Tools Needed

  • Large soup pot with lid
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife
  • Wooden spoon

Allergy Details

Always check every component for allergens and talk to a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Verify canned beans and vegetable broth labels for gluten content and trace allergens
  • If serving with bread or cheese accompaniments, confirm absence of gluten and dairy

Nutrition Info (per serving)

This is just general info. Always follow your doctor's advice for your needs.
  • Calories: 225
  • Fats: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Proteins: 8 g

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