Cream of Spinach Soup

Cream of Spinach Soup

Let’s talk about comfort in a bowl. This Cream of Spinach Soup is the kind of dish that wraps you up in a cozy hug after a long day. It’s velvety, vibrant, and packed with feel-good flavor. Whether you’re a soup lover or just spinach-curious, trust me—this one’s a game-changer. One spoonful and you’ll be hooked. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, light lunches, or when you just need something warm and nourishing to hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love Cream of Spinach Soup

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Enjoy it as a light appetizer, a main course with crusty bread, or even as a base for a gourmet twist with added toppings.

Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients that you probably already have at home—win-win!

Quick and Easy: Minimal chopping, quick cooking, and everything comes together in one pot. Perfect for busy weeknights.

Customizable: Want it dairy-free? Use coconut milk. Craving extra heat? Add a pinch of chili flakes. This soup plays well with your preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Cream of Spinach Soup

Here’s the magic of this soup—it’s made with a handful of humble ingredients that transform into something truly special. Let’s take a peek:

Butter or Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps soften the veggies for a smooth blend.

Onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and savory depth to the soup.

Garlic: A little goes a long way to elevate the flavor with a warm, aromatic kick.

Fresh Spinach: The star of the show. It gives the soup that gorgeous green color and a boost of nutrition.

Vegetable Broth: Acts as the flavorful base—choose low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.

Heavy Cream or Milk: This adds that luxurious creaminess we all crave in a comfort soup.

Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds warmth and a subtle nutty aroma. Trust me, it’s the secret ingredient.

Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together beautifully.

Cream of Spinach Soup

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: Start by heating your pot over medium heat. This gives you a head start on flavor-building and helps everything cook evenly.

Sauté the Aromatics: Add butter or olive oil, then toss in your chopped onion. Cook until it’s soft and translucent, then add garlic and stir for a minute until fragrant.

Add the Spinach: Throw in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts down completely. It may look like a lot at first, but spinach cooks down fast—don’t worry!

Pour in the Broth: Add your vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes to let all those flavors come together.

Blend It Up: Use an immersion blender right in the pot (or transfer carefully to a blender) and blend until the soup is silky smooth. No lumps allowed here!

Stir in the Cream: Lower the heat and stir in your cream or milk. Add a pinch of nutmeg and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it heat through—don’t boil!

Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can also drizzle extra cream or a swirl of olive oil for a fancy finish.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm and enjoy! Whether it’s paired with a side dish or served on its own, this recipe is sure to impress.

Nutrition Facts: Servings: 4 Calories per serving: 180

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Cream of Spinach Soup

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– Serve with toasted garlic bread or cheesy crostini for a satisfying crunch.
– Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort combo.
– Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra tang.
– Sprinkle croutons or roasted seeds for a textural surprise.
– Enjoy with a fresh side salad to keep it light and balanced.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Use baby spinach for a sweeter, milder flavor.
– Don’t skip the nutmeg—it’s a small touch that makes a big difference.
– Want to freeze it? Skip the cream, freeze, then stir it in fresh when reheating.
– If using a blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid pressure buildup.
– Add a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra brightness.
– For extra protein, stir in a bit of cooked quinoa or white beans.
– Make it vegan by swapping in coconut cream and plant-based butter.
– Add parmesan or cream cheese for a richer, indulgent version.
– Need a thinner soup? Just add more broth until it’s just right.
– Want a chunky texture? Blend only half the soup and leave some spinach whole.

FAQs

1 What can I use instead of cream in this soup
You can swap in milk, coconut milk, or even blended silken tofu for a creamy dairy-free version.

2 Can I use frozen spinach
Yes! Just thaw and drain it well before adding. It works great when fresh spinach isn’t available.

3 How do I store leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

4 Can I freeze this soup
Absolutely. Leave out the cream before freezing, and stir it in after reheating for best texture.

5 What can I serve with this soup
Crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a crisp green salad are all perfect pairings.

6 How do I make it more filling
Add cooked potatoes, white beans, or quinoa for extra heartiness.

7 Is this soup gluten-free
Yes, as long as your broth is certified gluten-free, this soup is naturally gluten-free.

8 Can I add protein
Of course! Cooked chicken, beans, or lentils can bulk up the soup beautifully.

9 Why does my soup look dull instead of green
Overcooking spinach or boiling it after blending can dull the color. Blend early and heat gently!

10 Can I make this in advance
Definitely. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just reheat gently before serving.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of warm, creamy spinach soup. It’s simple yet elegant, wholesome yet indulgent. Whether you’re new to soup-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-have in your rotation. So grab your pot, gather those ingredients, and let’s turn that humble bunch of spinach into something spectacular. You’ve got this—and trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat.

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Cream of Spinach Soup

Cream of Spinach Soup

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This Cream of Spinach Soup is a rich and velvety blend of tender spinach, aromatic onions, and creamy half-and-half. It’s a comforting dish perfect for chilly days, offering a delightful balance of flavors that’s both nourishing and satisfying.

 

  • Author: Grace Sullivan
  • Prep Time: 10min
  • Cook Time: 35min
  • Total Time: 45min
  • Yield: 5servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

– 1 pound frozen chopped spinach, thawed

– 2 cups water

– 1/2 cup chopped onion

– 4 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules

– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1/4 cup unsalted butter

– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

– 3 cups half-and-half

– Salt and ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine the spinach, water, bouillon granules, chopped onion, and garlic powder. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until the onion is tender.

 

2. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for 2 minutes.

 

3. Gradually whisk in the half-and-half until the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.

 

4. Add the cream mixture to the spinach mixture in the large pot. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

 

5. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot.

 

Notes

– For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken bouillon granules with vegetable bouillon.

– Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; ensure it’s thoroughly washed and chopped.

– For a smoother texture, blend the soup using an immersion blender before serving.

 

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1cup
  • Calories: 330kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 609mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 78mg

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