Spinach cream soup
Spinach cream soup - a healthy, green delicacy full of nutrients! This simple and delicious recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also provide you with a generous dose of vitamins. Spinach cream soup is perfect for a family meal, but also as an elegant starter for a dinner with friends.
Total time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Necessary ingredients
- 450 grams of fresh spinach (or frozen, but fresh offers a more vibrant taste)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large potato
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 450 ml vegetable or chicken broth (you can use a Knorr broth cube for convenience)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated zest of one lemon (optional)
- 2 slices of lemon (optional for serving)
- Croutons for serving (optional)
Useful
- Blender to achieve a smooth texture
- A large pot for boiling the ingredients
- Ladle for transferring the soup
The story behind the recipe
Spinach cream soup is a recipe that has gained popularity in various cultures due to its versatility and nutritional benefits. Spinach, rich in iron and vitamins A and C, is the main ingredient of this soup, which can be adapted with various spices and garnishes. Whether you prepare it for a fasting meal or as part of a balanced diet, this soup is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a healthy and filling meal.
Step by step to a perfect spinach cream soup
1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning the vegetables. Chop the onion into small cubes, the potato into approximately 1 cm cubes, and finely chop the garlic cloves. These uniform cuts will ensure even cooking.
2. Boiling the vegetables
In a large pot, add 1 liter of water and a teaspoon of salt. Add the chopped vegetables (onion, potato, and garlic) to boil. Cook them over medium heat for about 15 minutes or until they become soft. This time may vary depending on the size of the cuts.
3. Adding the spinach
After the vegetables are boiled, wash and clean the spinach of stems. Add the 450 grams of fresh spinach to the pot and let it boil for 5-7 minutes. The spinach will wilt quickly and add a fresh flavor to the soup.
4. Creating the cream
Once the spinach is cooked, drain the water from the pot, leaving just a little broth in which the vegetables boiled. Transfer the vegetables and spinach to the blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous cream. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little water or broth.
5. Finalizing the soup
Pour the cream back into the pot. Add 450 ml of water (the broth in which the vegetables boiled), a Knorr broth cube, and the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. This step will help blend the flavors.
6. Adjusting the taste
Before serving, taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. If desired, you can add the grated lemon zest for an extra freshness. It is an optional ingredient, but I highly recommend it!
7. Serving
Serve the spinach cream soup warm, garnished with crunchy croutons and, for a special touch, add a few thin slices of lemon. These not only look good but also provide a citrus note that perfectly balances the green taste of the spinach.
Useful tips
- Fresh vs. frozen spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup. Fresh spinach has a more vibrant taste.
- Vegan option: This soup is already vegan, but you can replace the broth cube with one that contains no animal ingredients.
- Customization: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or carrots, to diversify the flavors. Additionally, a hint of nutmeg or thyme can provide a deep and complex taste.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of greens?
Absolutely! Greens like kale or dill can be added to change the soup's flavor.
- How do I store the soup?
You can store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for later use.
- What goes well with this soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or a cheese sandwich.
Nutritional values
A serving of spinach cream soup has about 150 calories, being rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and antioxidants. This soup is not only filling but also an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight or adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Personal note
This spinach cream soup is one of my favorite recipes, especially on cool days. I remember how my mother prepared it every spring when the spinach was from the garden. Its fresh aroma and creamy texture have always been a reason for joy. Every time I serve it, I remember those warm and loving moments.
So, don’t hesitate to try this spinach cream soup recipe! It is simple, quick, and, above all, extremely tasty. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 4 servings: 450 grams of spinach, 450 grams of vegetable or chicken soup (I made it from a Knorr vegetable cube), 1 onion, 1 potato, 2 cloves of garlic, grated zest of one lemon and 2 thin slices of lemon, salt, olive oil, pepper