Spring Green Bean And Herb Soup

Name: Spring Green Bean And Herb Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Seasonal Plate Traditions

I love preparing this Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup during the warmer months. The vibrant green of fresh green beans combined with fragrant herbs creates a dish that feels rejuvenating and light yet satisfying. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare, which encourages me to enjoy soups even when it's warm outside. Each spoonful is a taste of spring, making it perfect for lunch or as a refreshing appetizer. I can’t wait for you to try this delicious recipe!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-16T11:10:37.172Z

When I first made this Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup, I was amazed by how fresh and vibrant it turned out to be. The secret lies in using only the freshest ingredients, especially in spring when green beans are at their best. I also love adding a splash of lemon juice at the end, which really brightens the flavors.

Each time I prepare this soup, I try to switch up the herbs depending on what I have on hand. It’s fascinating how a different herb can transform the dish. For instance, using fresh dill instead of parsley once gave it such a unique twist that it startled my taste buds in the best way possible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing flavors that capture the essence of spring.
Versatile recipe that allows for various herbs and spices.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal.

The Importance of Fresh Herbs

Fresh herbs like parsley and dill play a crucial role in elevating the flavors of this soup. Parsley adds a subtle earthiness, while dill offers a bright, slightly tangy note that complements the green beans beautifully. When chopping herbs, try to do so just before adding them to the soup to preserve their vibrant color and aromatic qualities. The contrast of greens also enhances visual appeal and makes each spoonful a delight.

If you don’t have parsley or dill, you can easily substitute with your favorite herbs. Basil, for example, could add a sweet note, while thyme would introduce a warm, earthy flavor. However, keep in mind that different herbs will change the overall taste of the soup, so experiment to find your perfect combination!

Perfecting Your Soup Texture

Achieving the right texture is critical in this green bean and herb soup. You want the beans to be tender yet still vibrant in color, which usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes of simmering. To check for doneness, simply taste a bean; it should offer a slight bite without being mushy. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the fresh herbs, which creates a nice contrast between smooth and chunky.

Also, remember that the longer you cook the beans, the more their color can dull. To retain that lovely green hue, try to keep the simmering time within the recommended range, and aim to serve the soup soon after cooking for the best visual appeal.

Ingredients

You'll need the following ingredients to make this delicious soup.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon

Ensure all vegetables are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add the Green Beans

Stir in the green beans and continue to cook for about 3 minutes, allowing them to slightly soften.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the green beans are tender.

Add Fresh Herbs

Stir in the parsley and dill, and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Remove the soup from heat, add lemon juice, and serve warm!

Enjoy the fresh taste of spring in every bite!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor even further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

This soup is a fantastic make-ahead option, as its flavors only deepen over time. After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much. You’ll find that the herbs will infuse even more flavor after sitting!

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as noted above for a fresh, flavor-packed meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Spring Green Bean and Herb Soup can serve as a lovely starter or a light main dish. If you want to elevate it further, consider topping it with a dollop of crème fraîche for a touch of richness or a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat. Serve it with warm crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

Since this soup is so versatile, don’t hesitate to adjust your serving style based on the occasion. For a picnic, you could chill the soup and serve it cold with some grilled chicken or fish, making for a refreshing option on a warm day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ What if I don't have vegetable broth?

You can substitute with chicken broth or water, but the flavor may vary.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is it possible to freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when you're ready to enjoy.