Creamy spinach and zucchini soup with flaxseeds

Spinach and Zucchini Cream Soup with Flaxseeds

When it comes to soups, few can rival the delicious spinach and zucchini cream soup. It is a recipe that combines the fresh taste of vegetables with a creamy texture and a subtle flavor of flaxseeds. This soup is not only nutritious but also an explosion of colors and flavors, perfect for any meal. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, it will surely bring a touch of joy to your plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh spinach (or frozen if fresh is not available)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large potato
- 1 carrot
- 1/4 celery
- 1-2 zucchinis
- 1 lemon
- 1 chili pepper (optional)
- sunflower oil (for cooking)
- olive oil (for serving)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- Flaxseeds (for decoration)
- Croutons (optional, for serving)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Recipe History:
Spinach and zucchini soup is a popular dish in many cultures, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of various regions. This soup is appreciated not only for its taste but also for the nutritional benefits it offers. Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while zucchinis provide fiber and antioxidants. Together, these vegetables create a healthy and nourishing combination, ideal for any diet.

Step by step for a perfect soup:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash the spinach well under cold running water and, if fresh, remove the stems. Peel the onion, potato, carrot, and celery. Chop the onion finely, cut the potato and carrot into small cubes, and slice the celery thinly. Zucchinis can be cut into cubes but keep them for the final stage.

2. Boil the vegetables: In a large pot, add about 2 liters of water and a little sunflower oil. Over medium heat, add the chopped onion, potato, carrot, and celery. Let it boil for 10 minutes until the vegetables become slightly soft.

3. Add the spinach: Once the vegetables have boiled, it’s time to add the spinach. Let it boil for 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and changes color.

4. Blend the soup: Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender or a regular blender to turn the soup into a smooth cream. If using a regular blender, be careful to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.

5. Boil the zucchinis: Put the blended soup back on the heat and add the cubed zucchinis. Squeeze the juice from one lemon into the soup and let it boil for 10-12 minutes. You may prefer the zucchinis to remain al dente, which adds a pleasant texture to the soup.

6. Season: Finally, season the soup with salt, pepper, and if desired, add a bit of chopped chili pepper for a kick. Stir well.

7. Serving: To serve, pour the soup into deep bowls. Garnish with a teaspoon of flaxseeds and, if desired, add a drizzle of olive oil. Simple croutons or garlic-buttered ones can add extra flavor to the dish.

Suggestions and tips:
- If you want a richer soup, you can add a little sour cream at the end.
- Another delicious variation is to add a few fresh basil or dill leaves for a special aroma.
- If you are looking for a quicker recipe, you can use frozen spinach, which cooks faster and is just as tasty.
- This soup pairs excellently with a slice of toasted bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional values (per serving):
Calories: approximately 180 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fats: 6 g
Fiber: 8 g

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a good alternative and will cook just as well. Make sure to thaw it and drain excess water before adding it to the soup.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can freeze it, but it’s recommended to add fresh zucchinis after thawing to maintain texture.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
Experiment with other vegetables like peas or broccoli to diversify the flavor.

Spinach and zucchini cream soup with flaxseeds is not just a simple recipe, but also a healthy choice. With every bite, you will enjoy a blend of flavors and textures, perfect for chilly days. Enjoy your meal!