Creamy Vichyssoise (Low-Fat Potato and Leek Soup)
If you’re looking for a soothing, flavorful soup that’s both satisfying and light on calories, this Vichyssoise recipe is the perfect choice. A traditional French dish, Vichyssoise is typically served cold, making it a refreshing option for warm weather. However, this versatile soup is equally delightful when served hot during the colder months. This version is low-fat, without compromising on the richness of flavor, and it’s a great addition to your healthy recipe collection. The balance of tender potatoes, sweet leeks, and creamy half & half light cream gives it a silky texture that’s simply irresistible.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Category: Potato
Cuisine: European
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes/Preparation |
---|---|---|
Potatoes | 5 medium | Peeled and chopped into cubes |
Leek | 1 large | Sliced into 1-inch chunks and rinsed |
Chicken broth | 3 cups | Low-sodium for a healthier option |
Skim milk | 2 cups | Add more or less depending on consistency |
Garlic cloves | 2 cloves | Minced |
Half & half light cream | 1 cup | For creaminess without too much fat |
Salt | To taste | |
Pepper | To taste | |
Fresh chives | For garnish | Chopped |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 310.8 kcal |
Fat | 7.8 g |
Saturated Fat | 4.6 g |
Cholesterol | 24.2 mg |
Sodium | 264.6 mg |
Carbohydrates | 50 g |
Fiber | 5.3 g |
Sugar | 2.5 g |
Protein | 11.4 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by peeling and chopping the potatoes into cubes. Slice the leek across into 1-inch chunks. Rinse the leek pieces in a bowl of cold water to remove any residual sand or dirt from the layers. -
Cook the Soup Base
In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth. Add the chopped potatoes, minced garlic, and sliced leeks. Ensure that the vegetables are well-submerged by the broth. Add enough skim milk to cover the ingredients completely. -
Season
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine. -
Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes. -
Puree the Soup
Once the potatoes are soft, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can use a countertop blender to blend the soup in small batches. Puree until the mixture is smooth and creamy. -
Add Creaminess
Pour in the fat-free half & half, and stir to combine. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if desired. -
Serve
If you’re serving the soup hot, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of finely chopped scallions, a bit of shredded cheddar cheese, and a few bacon bits for extra flavor. If you prefer to serve it cold, chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped chives and, if desired, a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Tips for Serving and Storing Vichyssoise
- Serving Hot: For a comforting winter meal, serve this creamy soup hot with a side of warm crusty bread or a light salad.
- Serving Cold: When serving cold, make sure the soup and bowls are chilled to enhance the refreshing experience. Vichyssoise is perfect for summer picnics or casual gatherings.
- Storage: Leftover Vichyssoise can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat if serving hot again. For cold servings, simply chill until ready to enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Vichyssoise Recipe
Not only is this Vichyssoise delicious, but it’s also a healthier take on a classic dish, with its low-fat content and nutrient-rich ingredients. The creamy texture from the potatoes, combined with the delicate flavor of the leeks and the richness of the fat-free half & half, creates a perfectly balanced dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether served hot to warm you up in the winter or chilled for a refreshing summer treat, this versatile soup makes for a wonderful addition to your recipe rotation.
Enjoy this light yet satisfying bowl of goodness, perfect for every season!