It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table without needing a special occasion.

The potatoes provide an additional hearty element to the meal.

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Because ham and bean soup is already filling, serve smaller portions if you’re including potatoes.

A little fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness.

11. Pickled Vegetables

This might sound like an unusual choice, but pickled vegetables are excellent with bean soup.

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The bright acidity helps balance the rich, savory flavors.

Try serving:

• Dill pickles

• Pickled red onions

• Pickled cucumbers

• Mild pickled peppers

• Pickled carrots

Arrange them in small bowls so everyone can choose their favorites.

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You don’t need large portions.

Even a few bites can provide a refreshing contrast.

12. Steamed Green Beans

Green beans are an easy, affordable side dish that works with almost any family dinner.

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Steam them until tender-crisp.

Then toss with a little butter or olive oil, lemon juice, and black pepper.

For extra flavor, add a small amount of minced garlic.

This side keeps the meal simple while adding color and vegetables.

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13. Homemade Dinner Rolls

Soft dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the last bit of soup.

They are especially convenient when feeding a crowd.

You can make them from scratch or use good-quality store-bought rolls.

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Warm them just before serving.

Brush lightly with melted butter if desired.

Place them in a basket in the center of the table, and don’t be surprised if everyone reaches for seconds.

14. Cucumber and Tomato Salad

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For a fresh side that requires almost no cooking, combine sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.

Toss with olive oil, a little vinegar, and dried oregano.

Season with salt and pepper.

Allow the salad to rest for about ten minutes before serving.

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The vegetables release a little juice, creating a light dressing.

This is an excellent option for warmer days when you still want to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup.

15. Cheddar Cheese Biscuits

If you want something a little more indulgent than ordinary bread, cheddar biscuits are a fantastic choice.

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The savory cheese flavor works beautifully with beans and ham.

You can prepare them using a basic biscuit dough with shredded cheddar folded into the mixture.

A little garlic powder or chopped chives adds extra flavor.

Serve them warm.

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They’re particularly good for family gatherings and weekend dinners.

Bonus Recipe: Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

White Bean and Ham Soup | The Modern Proper

themodernproper.com

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If the photograph of that enormous pot of soup has made you hungry, here’s a straightforward recipe you can prepare at home.

This version features tender white beans, smoky ham, vegetables, and a rich broth.

It’s economical, satisfying, and ideal for making ahead.

Prep: 20 minutes

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Cook: 1 hour

Servings: 8–10

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked diced ham

• 4 cans (15 ounces each) great northern or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 medium carrots, diced

• 3 celery stalks, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, optional

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Salt to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

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Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables.

Wash and dice the carrots, celery, and onion.

Mince the garlic.

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Try to keep the vegetables relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables.