Spring Spinach Soup
Highlighted under: Healthy Home Meals
I love making this Spring Spinach Soup as the weather warms up and fresh vegetables are abundant. This vibrant, green soup is not only packed with flavor but also a fantastic way to use seasonal produce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; a handful of ingredients transforms into a comforting and nourishing bowl, perfect for lunch or dinner. I often serve it with a dollop of creamy yogurt on top for added richness, making it a delightful treat that we can't get enough of!
Making this Spring Spinach Soup has become a cherished ritual for me each year as the days get longer. I love experimenting with different greens, but there's something about fresh spinach that just sings with spring flavor.
What I discovered while honing this recipe is that blending the soup while it’s still warm unleashes a vibrant color and silky texture. I'll sometimes toss in a handful of fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra layer of flavor, and it always impresses my guests!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright, fresh flavors that celebrate spring produce
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weekdays
- Customizable with your favorite herbs and toppings
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to a flavorful Spring Spinach Soup lies in the quality and freshness of the ingredients. Fresh spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, bringing a vibrant green color and a delicate earthy flavor that complements the potato's creaminess. When selecting spinach, opt for bright, crisp leaves without any wilting or yellowing. The diced potato acts as a natural thickener, giving the soup a velvety texture while also providing a satisfying heartiness.
Using high-quality vegetable broth can significantly elevate the soup's flavor. Homemade broth is always an option, but if you're using store-bought, look for low-sodium varieties to better control the salt levels in your dish. This soup is highly adaptable; if you're looking for a boost in nutrition, consider adding other seasonal vegetables such as peas or asparagus for added flavor and texture.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
The addition of lemon juice at the end of cooking is crucial for brightening the flavors of the soup. This tangy element cuts through the richness of the potatoes and complements the spinach beautifully. I always taste as I go and adjust the lemon juice according to my preference—sometimes adding a bit more for an extra zing. Those who enjoy a bit of heat can also add red pepper flakes before blending for a spicy kick.
Blending the soup creates a smooth and comforting texture, but leaving some chunks of potato can add interesting mouthfeel and enhance the eating experience. If you're using a regular blender, ensure the soup cools slightly before blending to avoid splattering. Always start blending at a low speed, gradually increasing to high to achieve a smooth consistency without creating a mess.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious bowl of Spring Spinach Soup:
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add more greens based on your preference!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Spring Spinach Soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Broth
Add the diced potato and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potato is tender.
Incorporate Spinach
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it wilts. Remove the pot from heat.
Blend and Season
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Return the soup to the pot, add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
Serve warm, garnished with a dollop of yogurt or your favorite toppings!
Pro Tips
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or cream before blending.
Serving Suggestions
This Spring Spinach Soup is delicious on its own, but I love to elevate it further by adding toppings. A dollop of creamy yogurt or a swirl of sour cream adds richness and a nice contrast to the refreshing spinach flavor. For crunch, top the soup with toasted croutons or nuts, such as pine nuts or walnuts, which also provide a lovely texture variation. Don't forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Pair the soup with a hearty slice of whole-grain bread or a crunchy salad to make it a complete meal. A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing can further complement the soup’s flavors and provide a well-rounded dining experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain the flavors, ensure it cools completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until steaming, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, or use a microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
If you want to keep the soup even longer, consider freezing it. Pour individual portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. The soup can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described above.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors even deepen as it sits.
→ Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh salad!
→ Is it possible to add other greens?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with kale, chard, or even arugula if you want a peppery kick.
Spring Spinach Soup
I love making this Spring Spinach Soup as the weather warms up and fresh vegetables are abundant. This vibrant, green soup is not only packed with flavor but also a fantastic way to use seasonal produce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; a handful of ingredients transforms into a comforting and nourishing bowl, perfect for lunch or dinner. I often serve it with a dollop of creamy yogurt on top for added richness, making it a delightful treat that we can't get enough of!
Created by: Harriet Mason
Recipe Type: Healthy Home Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the diced potato and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potato is tender.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it wilts. Remove the pot from heat.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the mixture to a regular blender. Return the soup to the pot, add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
Extra Tips
- For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk or cream before blending.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 5g