Cream Of Spinach Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a creamy, comforting bowl of soup that not only warms you up but also nourishes your body with a heap of nutritious goodness, then Cream of Spinach Soup might just be what you need! This velvety soup, made with fresh spinach, a rich base, and a hint of seasoning, is a perfect dish to indulge in when you’re craving something hearty, wholesome, and green.

Spinach, often called a superfood, is packed with vitamins, iron, and antioxidants. When combined with a creamy base, it transforms into a luxurious soup that is both decadent and healthy. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply want a light yet satisfying meal, this creamy spinach soup is sure to hit the spot.

In this article, we’ll walk through the entire process of making this creamy delight-from gathering the ingredients to the final, perfect bite. But first, let’s dive into the details of how to make this comforting dish.

Cream Of Spinach Soup Recipe

Here’s the full recipe breakdown. If you love spinach or are looking to introduce this leafy green into your meals in a more fun way, this recipe will do wonders. Let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed

• Fresh Spinach (about 10-12 cups): The hero of the dish. You can also use frozen spinach if you don’t have fresh, but fresh spinach tends to offer a more vibrant flavor.
• Butter (2 tablespoons): This helps to sauté the vegetables and adds richness to the soup.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): The base flavor. A mild, sweet onion like yellow or white works best here.
• Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced): Adds aromatic depth and flavor.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth (4 cups): This provides a liquid base for the soup. You can adjust this based on how thick or thin you want the soup to be.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): For that dreamy, smooth texture that makes the soup creamy. You can swap it for milk or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the soup and balancing the flavors.
• Nutmeg (½ teaspoon): A pinch of nutmeg brings out the warmth and depth of the soup without overpowering it.
• Optional Garnishes (croutons, fresh parsley, or grated cheese): These are just a few options to add some extra flavor and texture on top!

Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Spinach: If you’re using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly to remove any grit. You can either chop it roughly or leave the leaves whole for easier blending later. Set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbling, add the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes, until they turn translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
3. Cook the Spinach: Add the spinach to the pot. You might need to do this in batches because spinach wilts down quite a bit as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the spinach is wilted and reduced by about half.
4. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be sure to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches for safety.
6. Add the Cream: Once the soup is blended, return it to low heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes to integrate the cream and bring everything together.
7. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add a little more salt, pepper, or nutmeg if you feel it needs a boost. If you want a thinner soup, you can always add a little more broth or water.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. For extra flair, top with some croutons, fresh parsley, or a sprinkle of cheese.

Ingredient Insights

• Spinach: A powerhouse green, spinach is not just rich in vitamins A and K, but also contains folate, iron, and magnesium. It’s a great addition to any dish for its health benefits and its natural ability to pair well with creamy textures.
• Heavy Cream: This is what gives the soup its lush, silky texture. It’s key to balancing the earthy flavor of the spinach, making it richer and more satisfying.
• Nutmeg: It’s often used in small amounts to elevate the flavor profile of creamy dishes. A hint of nutmeg in this soup balances out the earthiness of the spinach with a subtle warmth.
• Butter: Not only does butter provide a lovely richness, but it’s also used to sauté the onions and garlic, which enhances the flavor base of the soup.

Expert Tips

• Blending Tip: If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend the soup less or use a potato masher for a more rustic result. Some people like leaving small bits of spinach for added texture.
• Seasoning: Always taste before serving! Seasoning is where you can really customize the soup. Some people like adding a little lemon juice or a dash of cayenne pepper for a zesty twist.
• Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce.
• Vegan Version: To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for sautéing and vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Cream of Spinach Soup: Stir in some freshly grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese right at the end for a cheesy, comforting touch.
• Spicy Spinach Soup: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat. This pairs wonderfully with the creamy base.
• Add Potato for a Thicker Texture: For extra creaminess and thickness, you can add a peeled, diced potato to the soup along with the spinach. This will add a lovely starchy consistency.
• Herb Infusion: You can infuse your soup with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. Add them in while the soup simmers, and remove before blending for subtle herb notes.

Final Words

Cream of Spinach Soup is one of those dishes that’s comforting, satisfying, and nourishing all at once. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight meal or something to impress your guests, this soup fits the bill. Its creamy, velvety texture and vibrant green color make it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. Plus, with the many variations and tips available, you can make it your own and adjust it to your preferences.