Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style: A Hearty & Nutritious Delight
Introduction:
“Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style” is a perfect blend of comforting warmth and nutritional goodness. With the goodness of spinach, fresh carrots, ripe tomatoes, and wholesome durum wheat penne pasta, this Italian-inspired soup makes for a wholesome and filling meal. Whether you’re craving something light yet hearty for dinner or looking for a nutrient-packed soup to enjoy during cooler months, this recipe is your go-to. The steps are simple, and the ingredients are easy to find, making this dish perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. Serve it alongside a crispy piece of garlic bread for an extra indulgence.
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Carrots (Gajjar) | 2, chopped into circles |
| Spinach | 2 cups, blanched and shredded |
| Tomatoes | 3, pureed |
| Garlic | 5 cloves, crushed |
| Vegetable Stock | 4 cups |
| Red Chilli 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 |
| Durum Wheat Penne Pasta | 1/2 cup, boiled |
| White Vinegar (optional) | 1/2 tablespoon |
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for another minute until it turns translucent and soft. -
Spice it Up:
Stir in the paprika powder, black pepper powder, and dried oregano. Let the spices infuse into the oil and onions for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally to prevent them from burning. -
Add Vegetables:
Now, add the blanched and shredded spinach, pureed tomatoes, chopped carrots, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined. Allow them to cook for a few seconds. -
Pour in the Vegetable Stock:
Add the vegetable stock to the pan and stir to combine. You can also add the white vinegar at this point if you’d like to give the soup a subtle tang. Otherwise, you can skip this step for a milder flavor. Let the soup simmer over low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Cook the Pasta:
While the soup simmers, cook the penne pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside. -
Final Touches:
As the soup thickens, taste it to check the seasoning. If necessary, adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Add the boiled penne pasta and red chilli flakes for a gentle heat. Stir everything together and let the soup cook for another 10 minutes. -
Add Baby Spinach:
For an extra touch of freshness, stir in some blanched baby spinach in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Allow the soup to cook for an additional 5 minutes, and it’s ready to serve. -
Serve:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, ideally alongside some crispy garlic bread for a deliciously comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style with garlic bread or freshly baked focaccia for a satisfying, Italian-inspired meal. This soup is perfect for a light yet hearty dinner and is a wonderful way to enjoy the natural flavors of fresh vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 180–200 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 30–35 g |
| Protein | 6–8 g |
| Fat | 5–7 g |
| Fiber | 4–5 g |
| Sodium | 500–600 mg |
(Note: Nutritional information may vary based on ingredient brands and specific measurements.)
Tips:
- For a creamier version, you can blend the soup before adding the pasta, turning it into a creamy, velvety texture.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red chilli flakes.
- You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat and add the pasta before serving.
This Spinach Tomato Soup Italian Style offers a blend of flavors that are both nourishing and delicious. It’s a perfect option for those who crave a comforting bowl of soup packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Enjoy this wholesome, savory dish as a warm and satisfying meal for any day of the week!
