Greek Bean Soup (Fasolada)

[Updated 18/03/2025]

Known as Greece’s national dish, fasolada is a hearty, protein-packed bean soup perfect for cold days. Simple yet flavorful, it has nourished generations with its rich taste and nutritious ingredients.

Ingredients

• 500g dry white beans
• 1 onion, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, grated (or 1 tbsp tomato paste)
• A handful of celery, chopped
• ½ cup olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Water (as needed)

Instructions

1. The night before, soak the beans in plenty of water.
2. The next day, drain and rinse them. Boil for 5 minutes in fresh water, then drain and rinse again.
3. Return to the pot, adding enough fresh water to cover the beans halfway.
4. Add the carrots, onion, celery, tomato paste (or grated tomatoes), olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes in a pressure cooker (or 1 hour in a regular pot) until beans are tender.

Serving Tips & Variations

Serve with crusty bread, olives, or feta cheese. For a twist, try it with an omelet or canned tuna on the side.