This creamy spinach soup offers the perfect balance of rich texture and bright, fresh flavors. With its silky smooth finish and vibrant green hue, it’s a comforting dish that’s both healthy and indulgent. The addition of thyme and oregano brings depth, while a dash of nutmeg adds a touch of warmth.
Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this spinach soup can be served with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. You can also make it vegan by using coconut cream, offering a dairy-free alternative that’s just as satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or as part of a weeknight meal, this soup is sure to impress.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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6 cups vegetable broth
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4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
Directions:
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In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add vegetable broth, spinach, thyme, oregano, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, until the spinach is tender.
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Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth. (You can blend it in batches if necessary.)
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Return the soup to the pot and stir in heavy cream or coconut cream if desired. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Heat for another 5 minutes and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Health Benefits of Spinach Soup
Spinach is often called a “superfood,” and it’s easy to see why. This leafy green is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that provide significant health benefits. When made into a soup, spinach becomes an easy-to-digest option that helps you incorporate more greens into your diet.
One of the key health benefits of spinach is its rich vitamin content. It’s an excellent source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and proper blood clotting. It also contains vitamin A, which supports eye health and boosts immunity, along with vitamin C, which helps with skin health and collagen production. Spinach is also high in folate, which is crucial for cell division and DNA formation.
In addition to vitamins, spinach is packed with important minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. Iron is essential for red blood cell production, while magnesium supports muscle and nerve function. Potassium helps regulate fluid balance and lowers the risk of high blood pressure. Spinach soup provides all of these nutrients in a warm, comforting bowl.
Spinach is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. The fiber helps with digestion, keeps you feeling full, and promotes a healthy gut. Spinach also contains antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect against oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
The Versatility of Spinach Soup
What makes spinach soup so popular is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your personal taste, dietary preferences, and whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you prefer a creamy, rich texture or a lighter, broth-based version, spinach soup can be customized in countless ways.
For a creamy spinach soup, you can add ingredients like heavy cream, coconut milk, or olive oil. These ingredients create a smooth and velvety texture, making the soup rich and indulgent. If you prefer a lighter version, simply skip the cream and use a vegetable broth as the base. The natural flavors of spinach and herbs will still shine through.
The flavors of spinach soup can also be adjusted by adding various herbs and spices. A pinch of nutmeg can give the soup a cozy, warm feel, while garlic, onion, and thyme can provide depth. The addition of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can also brighten the flavors and give the soup a refreshing tang.
To make spinach soup more substantial, you can add ingredients such as beans, lentils, or tofu for extra protein. These additions will not only make the soup more filling but will also increase its nutritional value. For a low-carb version, skip the starchy vegetables like potatoes and replace them with non-starchy vegetables such as zucchini, cauliflower, or mushrooms.
Spinach Soup for Every Diet
Spinach soup is incredibly adaptable, making it a great option for a wide range of dietary needs. Whether you follow a vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or dairy-free diet, spinach soup can easily be modified to meet your preferences.
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For a vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace the cream with coconut milk. You can also add tofu or chickpeas for protein.
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If you’re following a gluten-free diet, you’ll be happy to know that spinach soup is naturally gluten-free. Pair it with gluten-free bread or crackers for a complete meal.
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Those on a keto diet can enjoy spinach soup by using coconut milk or almond milk as the base. You can also add healthy fats like avocado or olive oil to make the soup more satisfying.
For those who enjoy meat, spinach soup can be paired with grilled chicken, turkey, or beef for added protein. The mild, creamy texture of the soup complements the richness of the meat, making it a comforting and hearty meal.
How to Serve Spinach Soup
While spinach soup can be enjoyed on its own, it’s also great when paired with sides and toppings. A slice of crusty bread, a few crackers, or garlic toast make the perfect accompaniment to dip into the soup. You can also add a sprinkle of cheese, such as grated Parmesan or crumbled feta, for extra flavor.
If you like some crunch, consider topping your spinach soup with roasted nuts, seeds, or croutons. Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill can also be added for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Meal Prep with Spinach Soup
Spinach soup is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for even longer storage. This makes spinach soup the perfect solution for busy days when you want a healthy, homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
When you’re ready to eat, simply heat it up, garnish with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a warm, comforting meal.
Conclusion
Spinach soup is more than just a healthy meal; it’s a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make option that can be customized to fit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to boost your nutrition, enjoy a cozy bowl of soup, or stick to a specific diet, spinach soup is a perfect choice.
Its rich combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants makes it a great addition to any meal plan. Plus, its creamy texture and fresh, bright flavors will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. So, whether you’re making spinach soup for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s a dish that’s sure to delight your taste buds and support your health.