Creamy Spinach Soup Recipe
Welcome to a delightful journey of culinary creation with this heartwarming Creamy Spinach Soup recipe. Crafted to perfection, this wholesome, nutrient-rich, and velvety soup will not only satiate your hunger but also invigorate your senses with its comforting blend of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a soothing meal on a cool day, this recipe promises a delightful experience, fitting right into your busy schedule with just under an hour of preparation and cooking time. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious dish!
Overview
Recipe Name: Creamy Spinach Soup
Total Time: 1 hour (Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cook Time: 45 minutes)
Servings: 4
Calories: 169.6 per serving
Category: Vegetable
Keywords: Low Protein, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Under 60 Mins, Stove Top
Rating: 4 stars
Review Count: 1
Ingredients
To achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Creamy Spinach Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- Onion: 1 large onion, finely chopped
- Water: 6 cups
- Potatoes: 3 medium-sized, peeled and diced
- Zucchini: 3 medium-sized, diced
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Spinach Leaves: 2 cups, packed
- Black Pepper: 1/3 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Optional: Mushrooms, for garnish
Each ingredient contributes to the unique taste and nutritional profile of this soup. The onions provide a robust base, while the potatoes and zucchini add creaminess and body without the need for dairy. Spinach brings a vibrant color and a wealth of vitamins, making this soup not only delicious but also incredibly healthy.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a closer look at the nutritional benefits you’ll gain from each serving of this delectable soup:
- Calories: 169.6 kcal
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 194.5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 37.8 g
- Fiber: 6.1 g
- Sugars: 5.5 g
- Protein: 6.1 g
This soup is a perfect fit for those looking to maintain a balanced diet with low fat, low cholesterol, and a good amount of fiber and protein. The minimal use of sodium and absence of cholesterol make it suitable for various dietary needs, including vegan and heart-healthy diets.
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare a pot of comforting Creamy Spinach Soup:
-
Prepare the Onion:
Place 1 chopped onion in a large pot with 1/2 cup of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens slightly, about 3 minutes. -
Combine Base Ingredients:
Add the remaining 5 1/2 cups of water, diced potatoes, zucchini, and soy sauce to the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. -
Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the mixture cook for about 35 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and flavors to meld. -
Add Spinach and Season:
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and blends into the soup. -
Puree the Soup:
Remove the pot from heat. Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience. Ensure the soup reaches a creamy consistency. -
Reheat and Garnish:
Return the pureed soup to the pot. If desired, add mushrooms at this stage for an extra layer of texture. Heat gently for 5 minutes until warmed through. -
Serve:
Ladle the hot, creamy spinach soup into bowls. Serve immediately, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips and Variations
For Enhanced Flavor: Sauté the onions in a tablespoon of olive oil instead of water for a richer flavor. You can also add a clove of garlic, minced, along with the onion for added depth.
Add Creaminess: For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or almond milk after pureeing the soup. This will also enhance the flavor and provide a richer mouthfeel.
Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs such as basil or thyme can be added just before serving for an aromatic touch. A pinch of nutmeg can also complement the spinach beautifully.
Optional Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as carrots or celery for added complexity. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before pureeing.
Texture Variation: If you prefer a chunky soup, blend only half of the mixture and leave the rest with chunks of vegetables for a heartier texture.
Garnishing Ideas: Top with a dollop of vegan yogurt, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, or some freshly chopped chives for a gourmet presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Spinach Soup pairs well with a variety of accompaniments:
- Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread or a bread roll is perfect for dipping.
- Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast.
- Crackers: Serve with whole-grain crackers for a satisfying crunch.
- Main Course: This soup can also be served as a starter to a larger meal featuring grilled vegetables or a hearty grain bowl.
Storage and Reheating
Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it has cooled to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
Health Benefits
Spinach, the star of this recipe, is a powerhouse of nutrients, providing vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. It’s known for supporting immune function, promoting eye health, and contributing to bone strength. Coupled with the dietary fiber from potatoes and zucchini, this soup supports digestive health and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Spinach Soup is a versatile, nutritious, and easy-to-make recipe that fits into a variety of meal plans and dietary preferences. Its rich flavor and creamy texture are sure to please, making it a staple in your collection of go-to soups. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone meal or as part of a larger spread, it brings comfort and nourishment in every bowl. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and delight in the comforting warmth of this wholesome soup!
Embrace the joy of cooking and the pleasure of a warm, nourishing meal with this Creamy Spinach Soup from Love with Recipes. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!
