Green Bean Soup: A Vegan & Gluten-Free Recipe

When you think of a hearty soup, green beans may not be the first star that comes to mind — but this recipe proves they belong front and center. Green Bean Soup: A Vegan & Gluten-Free Recipe reimagines the humble green bean into a creamy, satisfying bowl that captures freshness, easy texture, and plant-based depth. Instead of leaning on dairy or gluten for richness, the recipe uses almond flour to lend smoothness, while kale, onion, garlic, and lemon transform a simple soup into an elevated, vibrant meal.

Green bean and almond combinations are vintage in Mediterranean cooking, often seen in cold bean salads or almond-green soups. Here, those traditions are honored with a clean-eating lens: whole green beans, clean broth, leafy greens, and minimal but purposeful additions. The resulting soup is both nourishing and inviting — light on the stomach yet full of flavor and body.

Because every ingredient is vegan and naturally gluten-free, this soup is inclusive for many diets. It works beautifully as a starter, a light dinner, or a midday boost. Serve it with warm bread or a crisp salad, and let the bright green color and gentle lemon accent deliver both visual and taste contrast.

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Green Bean Soup w/ Almonds

Recipe Details

Yield: 4 servings
Active Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Green Bean Soup Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for serving
• 2 medium yellow onions, diced
• 2 sticks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic
• 3 large handfuls green beans, trimmed
• 1 quart vegetable stock
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 bunch kale or other dark leafy greens, roughly chopped
• 3 tablespoons parsley
• Juice of 3 lemons
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving

How to Make Green Bean Soup

1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add onions and celery and cook until vegetables have softened and turn golden in color, stirring occasionally.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
3. Add green beans, stir well, then add stock. Simmer 30 minutes.
4. Add almond flour, stirring to combine.
5. Turn off heat and stir in kale.
6. When the soup has cooled slightly, transfer to a blender along with parsley and process until smooth.
7. Add the blended soup back into the pot and stir in lemon juice. Season well with salt and pepper.
8. Serve with lemon wedges and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

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Green Bean Soup Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 4 servings). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 serving (1/4 of recipe)
Calories	≈ 220 kcal
Protein	≈ 6 g
Carbs	≈ 11 g
Sugar	≈ 3 g
Fiber	≈ 5 g
Fat	≈ 19 g

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Green Bean Soup Variations & Tips

• Leafy green swap: Use spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens instead of kale if you want a milder finish.
• Nut alternative: Use cashew flour or finely ground blanched cashews in place of almond flour for a different nut-cream texture.
• Roasted aromatics: Roast the garlic or onions before sautéing for deeper flavor and caramelized notes.
• Herb boost: Stir fresh dill, thyme, or tarragon into the soup just before serving for fresh herbal lift.
• Adjust consistency: Use more vegetable stock or water for a thinner broth-like soup; blend less for a chunkier texture.
• Lemon balance: Add lemon juice gradually — you want brightness, not acidity — especially when serving to guests unaccustomed to tangy soups.
• Garnish touches: Top with toasted almonds, a swirl of olive oil, or a sprinkle of black pepper to finish elegantly.

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Best Green Bean Soup Pairings

• Warm gluten-free bread or flatbread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
• Simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette: A crisp, tangy contrast to the smooth soup.
• Roasted vegetable sides: Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or squash — hearty complements.
• Quinoa or millet salad: Light grain side that pairs with the vegan theme and adds texture.
• Seed crackers or almond crisps: Crispy elements to break up the velvety soup mouthfeel.
• Herbed butter or olive oil drizzle: A touch of richness on top adds elegance without heaviness.

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When to Make Green Bean Soup

• Weeknight dinners: Easy to prepare, light eating that still feels satisfying.
• Lunch with guests: Elegant, visually attractive soup served with bread for cozy hosting.
• Seasonal menus: Spring or summer launches where green beans are fresh and seasonal.
• Vegan or gluten-free gatherings: Safe, inclusive option for diverse dietary needs.
• Starter course in multi-course meals: A gentle first course before bolder main dishes.
• Meal prep & reheating: Makes well ahead and tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Photo credit: Paul Delmont