Spinach cream soup

Spinach cream soup: a healthy, quick, and extremely comforting delicacy

When it comes to delicious and healthy dishes, spinach cream soup is at the top of the list. This simple yet flavorful recipe is not only perfect for fasting days but also for moments when you want to enjoy something healthy and tasty. With a combination of accessible ingredients and minimal preparation time, this cream soup will warm your soul and bring a serving of essential vitamins to the table.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I. Required ingredients

- 250 g frozen spinach
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (or chicken broth for a richer version)
- Croutons for serving
- Sour cream (optional for those who are not fasting)

II. Preparing the ingredients

Spinach is a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, with a considerable amount of vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron. Therefore, choosing frozen spinach will not only save you time but also ensure the preservation of essential nutrients. Make sure the spinach is of good quality, without additives or preservatives.

As for the onion, opt for a sweet onion, which will add a delicate note to your soup. Garlic, besides its unmistakable aroma, is known for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, so don't hesitate to include it.

III. Cooking the soup

1. In a medium pot, bring water to a boil. Add the frozen spinach, quartered onion, and whole garlic cloves. You can also add a bay leaf for extra flavor if you wish.

2. Let the ingredients simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes until the spinach is thawed and the onion becomes translucent.

3. After the vegetables have boiled, strain the soup, keeping the liquid in which they boiled. This will become the base of your cream soup. Be careful not to lose the concentrated flavors!

4. In a blender, add the spinach, onion, and garlic. To achieve the perfect consistency, gradually add the reserved liquid until the soup reaches the desired texture. If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add more liquid.

5. Once you have a smooth cream, pour the soup back into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring well. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes so that the flavors blend harmoniously.

IV. Serving

Spinach cream soup is served hot, either in individual bowls or deep plates. Add some crunchy croutons on top for a pleasant texture and, if you're not fasting, a teaspoon or two of sour cream for a creamy and rich taste.

V. Variations and tips

- If you want to enrich the soup, you can also add a diced potato during cooking, which will contribute to a creamier consistency.
- You can experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cumin, which can add a note of originality.
- A delicious variation is to add some crumbled feta cheese at serving time for a savory contrast.

VI. Nutritional benefits

This spinach cream soup is not only delicious but also extremely healthy. It contains about 150 calories per serving, providing plenty of nutrients without weighing you down. Spinach is known for its antioxidant properties, and garlic helps strengthen the immune system. This recipe is high in fiber, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

VII. Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Of course! Fresh spinach can be used, but make sure to wash it well and cook it a little longer to soften it.

2. Can I make the soup in advance?
Yes, the soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated before serving.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes during cooking to give it an extra kick.

VIII. Pairing suggestions

This spinach cream soup pairs perfectly with a slice of buttered toast or a fresh vegetable salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade can perfectly complement the meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! I promise that each spoonful of spinach cream soup will be an explosion of taste and health, bringing a touch of joy and warmth to your days. Enjoy!