Vegan One-Pot Pinto Bean Soup with Lemon
This hearty, deeply satisfying soup proves that a bowl of something truly comforting doesn't need anything beyond a well-stocked pantry and one good pot. Softened carrots, celery, and onion build a savory base, while smoked paprika and cumin give the broth a warm, smoky depth that tastes like it's been simmering all day — even though it comes together in under an hour. The real magic happens when you mash a quarter of the pinto beans right in the pot, thickening the broth into something rich and almost creamy without a drop of dairy. Baby spinach wilts in at the end for a pop of color and nutrition, and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the whole thing just before serving. Every single ingredient in this recipe is completely plant-based, so there's no need to swap anything out or second-guess a label. It makes four satisfying servings, which means leftovers are practically guaranteed — and this soup only gets better the next day.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 cans (15 oz each) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 cups baby spinach, loosely packed
For serving
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent and the carrots have begun to soften, about 7–8 minutes.
- 2
Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Watch closely so the garlic does not brown.
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