Spinach soup

Spinach soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare. It’s a great way to enjoy the health benefits of spinach and can be made creamy or light, depending on your preference. Here’s a simple recipe for spinach soup:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or 2 cups frozen spinach, thawed)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (for creaminess, optional)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or milk/coconut milk for a lighter option, optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon, optional)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. Add Spinach and Potato:

   • If using fresh spinach, add it to the pot and cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes). If using frozen spinach, add it to the pot with the broth.
   • Add the diced potato (if using) and stir everything together.

3. Add Broth:

   • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

4. Blend the Soup:

   • Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches and blend until smooth.

5. Add Cream (Optional):

   • Return the puréed soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the heavy cream (or milk/coconut milk) for added creaminess. Heat gently over low heat until warmed through, but do not boil. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

6. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips:

• Customize: You can add other vegetables, like leeks or carrots, for extra flavor. Some recipes also include nutmeg for a warm spice.
• Storage: Spinach soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider adding cream or milk after reheating for the best texture.
• Toppings: Serve with a dollop of sour cream, croutons, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.

Enjoy your vibrant and healthy spinach soup! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year!