Cold spinach soup

Cold Spinach Soup – a refreshing and nutrient-packed recipe

If you're looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful recipe, cold spinach soup is the perfect choice. This dish is not just a burst of greens, but also an excellent way to cool off on hot summer days. The origins of this soup are closely tied to healthy culinary traditions, where fresh vegetables play the starring role. Cold spinach soup can be served as an appetizer or as a light meal, alongside a slice of crispy rye bread.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes (optional)
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 10 fresh spinach leaves (about 100 g)
- 250 ml water
- 1 green onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 2 tablespoons diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 10 ml extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the cold spinach soup – essential steps

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the spinach leaves thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or residues. Then, clean the green onion and garlic clove. Chop the onion into smaller pieces to help with blending.

2. Blending: In a blender, add the 250 ml of water. Add the spinach leaves, green onion, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Start blending at medium speed for about a minute, until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. If you want a thinner soup, you can add a little more water.

3. Cooling: Once the soup is well blended, you can choose to serve it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for a slight cooling. This option is ideal, especially on scorching summer days when a cold soup is more enjoyable.

4. Serving: Serve the cold spinach soup in deep bowls, garnished with a few fresh spinach leaves or tomato pieces for a colorful presentation. Don't forget to bring along a slice of crispy rye bread, which will perfectly complement the soup's flavor.

Helpful tips for a perfect spinach soup

- Fresh spinach: Choose fresh spinach leaves with a deep green color that show no spots or visible damage.
- Olive oil: Choose a quality extra virgin olive oil, as it will add a rich flavor to your soup.
- Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, select sweet and ripe varieties. Canned tomatoes are a convenient option and can provide consistent flavor.
- Variations: You can add other ingredients to customize the soup, such as diced cucumber, avocado for a creamy texture, or even a bit of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Garlic provides cardiovascular benefits, while tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. A serving of cold spinach soup has about 90 calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Pairs well with:

Cold spinach soup pairs perfectly with a fresh salad, a goat cheese tart, or even a cheese platter. Additionally, a glass of refreshing lemonade or a fruit smoothie will complete the meal, offering a sweet and tangy taste that balances the green flavors of the soup.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, you can use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the blender.

2. How can I make the soup spicier? Add a little fresh chili pepper or chili flakes to the mixture to give it an extra kick.

3. Is this soup suitable for vegans? Absolutely! All the ingredients are plant-based, making it an excellent choice for a vegan diet.

4. Can I store the soup in the fridge? Yes, the soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to benefit from all the nutritional properties.

In conclusion, cold spinach soup is not just a simple recipe but also a healthy and versatile option, ideal for any meal. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, lunch, or dinner, its fresh and vibrant taste will delight you every time. Enjoy!