Classic Greek Fasolada (White Bean Soup) with Feta

Fasolada relies on the slow breakdown of bean starches to naturally thicken the broth, creating a creamy texture without dairy. The generous amount of olive oil added forms an emulsion with the starchy water, which is a hallmark of Greek 'Ladera' (oil-based) dishes.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 1 hr 30 mins
Total Time 13 hrs 45 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 600 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Greek

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Dutch Oven or Heavy Pot: Ideal for slow, long simmering. Thick walls distribute heat evenly, preventing the beans at the bottom from burning.
  • Ladle: Not just for serving, but for the "creaming" trick—smashing some beans against the pot side to thicken the broth.

Allergen Information

⚠️ Dairy

Instructions

1

Soak the dry beans in plenty of cold water overnight (approx 12 hours). Drain and rinse before cooking.

Tip: Soaking rehydrates the beans uniformly. Cooking unsoaked beans often results in split skins and hard centers.
2

Finely dice the onion and garlic. Slice the carrots into rounds and the celery into thin pieces.

Tip: Cut carrots slightly thicker than celery as they take longer to soften; this ensures everything finishes cooking at the same time.
3

Heat the olive oil in a large pot. Sauté the onions, celery, and garlic for 3-4 minutes until soft.

Tip: The oil is a key ingredient, not just a cooking medium. It provides satiety and carries the flavor of the aromatics.
4

Add the carrots and tomato puree. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes.

Tip: Sautéing the tomato puree ('blooming') reduces its acidity and develops a deeper, sweeter flavor.
5

Add the soaked beans, water, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer covered for 1 to 1.5 hours. Add salt only in the last 20 minutes.

Tip: Adding salt too early can toughen the skins of the beans. Wait until they are tender.
6

Serve hot, generously crumbled with Feta cheese on top.

Tip: For a thicker soup, crush a ladleful of beans against the side of the pot to release more starch into the broth.

Recipe FAQ

Do I have to soak beans?
Yes. Soaking ensures even cooking. Without it, skins split while centers remain hard. Quick soak: Boil 2 mins, let sit 1 hour.
Can I use canned beans?
In a pinch, yes. Simmer for only 20 mins to meld flavors. Texture will be softer.
Storage?
Like most stews, it tastes even better the next day. Stays good in the fridge for 5 days.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups Dry White Beans (Cannellini or Navy)
  • 1 medium Red Onion (diced)
  • 5 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 medium Carrots (sliced rounds)
  • 1 stalk Celery (sliced)
  • 4 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 cup Tomato Puree or Crushed Tomatoes
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaf
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 0.5 tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper
  • 4 cups Water (approx 1 Liter)
  • 4 oz Feta Cheese (crumbled)