Spinach Soup Recipe
This Spinach Soup Recipe is a delightful and nourishing option for any time of the year. Bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant green hues, this soup is not just good for you; it’s also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or want a light yet satisfying meal, this spinach soup checks all the boxes. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a bowl of comforting goodness in no time.
Why Cooks Rave About It
Spinach soup is a favorite among home cooks for many reasons. Firstly, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet, making it a healthy option for everyone. The simplicity of the recipe allows the fresh spinach to shine, while the onion and garlic add depth and flavor. Not to mention, it’s a budget-friendly dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
The Ingredient Lineup
To create this flavorful spinach soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
These ingredients combine beautifully to create a rich, velvety soup that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the following equipment:
- Large pot: A sturdy pot will help in sautéing the onions and garlic evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.
- Blender: An immersion blender or countertop blender works well for achieving a smooth texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Chopping board and knife: For chopping onions and garlic.
Having these tools ready will streamline your cooking experience, making it enjoyable and efficient.
Spinach Soup Recipe: From Prep to Plate
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious spinach soup.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Step 2: Add the Broth
Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step helps to build the base flavors of your soup.
Step 3: Incorporate the Spinach
Once the broth is simmering, add the washed and roughly chopped spinach. Stir gently to immerse the spinach in the broth, allowing it to wilt down over the next few minutes.
Step 4: Seasoning
As the spinach wilts, season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your preference.
Step 5: Blend to Perfection
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you’re using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring it in batches. Blend until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Return the blended soup to the pot and heat it through if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of spinach soup!
In-Season Swaps
This spinach soup is versatile, and you can make it with different greens or vegetables depending on what’s in season:
- Kale: Substitute spinach with kale for a heartier texture and flavor.
- Swiss chard: Another leafy green that works beautifully in this recipe.
- Peas: Add fresh or frozen peas for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Carrots: Incorporate chopped carrots for an added layer of sweetness and nutrition.
Feel free to experiment with seasonal produce to create your unique twist on this classic spinach soup.
Author’s Commentary
This spinach soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of simplicity. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to transform humble ingredients into something truly satisfying. I love making this soup when I want to warm up after a long day or when I’m feeling under the weather. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Plus, the vibrant green color is just so cheerful. You can customize it with toppings like croutons, a dollop of yogurt, or even a sprinkle of cheese for added richness. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be hooked!
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
This spinach soup is perfect for meal prep! Here are some tips for storing your soup:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: This soup freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stove. Stir to combine, and add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.
Having this soup on hand makes for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach is a great alternative and can save you time. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the soup.
Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this spinach soup recipe is entirely vegan, made with vegetable broth and no dairy products. It’s a perfect option for plant-based diets.
What can I serve with spinach soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a green salad, or even a light sandwich for a complete meal.
Can I add protein to the soup?
Definitely! You can add cooked beans, lentils, or even shredded chicken for an extra boost of protein and heartiness.
The Takeaway
This Spinach Soup Recipe is not only a nourishing choice but also a canvas for creativity in the kitchen. With its simple ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Whether you keep it classic or explore seasonal variations, this soup is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade spinach soup that’s both delicious and healthy. You’ll find that cooking can be both satisfying and rewarding, especially when you have a bowl of warm soup waiting for you at the end!
Spinach Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step helps to build the base flavors of your soup.
- Once the broth is simmering, add the washed and roughly chopped spinach. Stir gently to immerse the spinach in the broth, allowing it to wilt down over the next few minutes.
- As the spinach wilts, season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch and adjust according to your preference.
- Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. If you’re using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly before transferring it in batches. Blend until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- Return the blended soup to the pot and heat it through if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper if desired. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of spinach soup!
Notes
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- This soup freezes well; portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Add seasonal vegetables like kale or peas for a unique twist.
