Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style: A Heartwarming Delight
This Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style recipe combines the vibrant flavors of fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes with the comforting essence of Italian herbs and spices, creating the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. The soup’s rich and thick texture, paired with the aromatic fragrance of garlic, oregano, and black pepper, makes every spoonful a delight. It’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while savoring the taste of Italy!
Whether you’re looking for a wholesome vegetarian meal or a light dinner option, this soup delivers both nutrition and flavor. Serve it alongside some crispy garlic bread, and you have a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Carrots (Gajjar, chopped) | 2 |
| Spinach (blanched and shredded) | 2 cups |
| Tomatoes (pureed) | 3 |
| Garlic (crushed) | 5 cloves |
| Vegetable stock | 4 cups |
| Red chili flakes | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Paprika powder | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Penne pasta (boiled) | 1/2 cup |
| White vinegar (optional) | 1/2 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Potassium | 650mg |
| Vitamin A | 70% of the Daily Value (DV) |
| Vitamin C | 30% of the DV |
| Iron | 10% of the DV |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Prepare the Base:
- Heat extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
-
Season the Soup:
- Sprinkle in the paprika powder, black pepper powder, and dried oregano, then stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices. Let the mixture cook for a few seconds to enhance the flavors.
-
Add Vegetables:
- Next, incorporate the blanched spinach, pureed tomatoes, and chopped carrots into the pan. Stir to combine everything evenly and cook for another few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable stock and stir to combine. If you like a tangy note, you can add white vinegar at this point (though this is optional). Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have developed and the soup has started to thicken.
-
Final Touches:
- Once the soup has thickened, add the boiled penne pasta and red chili flakes. Stir and cook for another 10 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or black pepper as per your preference.
-
Add Spinach and Finish Cooking:
- For the final step, add a handful of baby spinach (blanched) into the soup and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. The spinach will wilt into the soup, adding an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a light salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
For a truly Italian-inspired experience, serve this hearty soup alongside some crispy garlic bread. The crunchy texture and savory flavor of the bread will complement the smooth, rich soup perfectly. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can add a nice finishing touch to your bowl of soup.
Additional Tips:
- Pasta Alternative: Feel free to experiment with other types of pasta, such as farfalle or fusilli, depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente before adding it to the soup.
- Vegan Option: To make this soup vegan, simply skip the white vinegar or use a plant-based pasta.
- Herb Variations: You can switch up the herbs by adding basil, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add a chopped fresh chili.
This Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something comforting yet light. With a blend of vegetables, pasta, and rich Italian seasonings, it’s the ideal dish to warm both body and soul. Enjoy!
