Spinach soup with croutons

Spinach Soup with Croutons - a Quick and Healthy Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Looking for a simple and delicious recipe for a soup that will delight your taste buds? Spinach soup with croutons is the perfect choice! This creamy soup is not only packed with nutrients, but it is also an excellent way to incorporate green vegetables into your daily diet. Let's get started!

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup milk (for a creamier texture, choose whole milk)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1.5 liters water
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the soup)
- 2 egg yolks (for added richness)
- Salt, to taste
- Toasted bread croutons (for serving)

Step 1: Preparing the spinach
Start by cleaning and washing the spinach. Make sure to remove all wilted or damaged leaves. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the spinach and let it blanch for 2-3 minutes. This will help preserve the vibrant color of the spinach and reduce the bitter taste.

Step 2: Chopping the spinach
After the spinach has been blanched, remove it from the water and drain it well. Use a sharp knife to chop the spinach finely. This step is essential to ensure a smooth consistency of the soup. You can also use a blender for a finer texture, but chopping by hand retains some of the leaf texture, which can be pleasant.

Step 3: Preparing the soup
In a large pot, melt the two tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to make a roux. This step will thicken the soup and add a delicious flavor. Gradually add water, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Adding the spinach and milk
Once the soup has simmered, add the chopped spinach and milk. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes. This will help combine the flavors and create a creamy soup. Adjust the salt to taste.

Step 5: Finishing the soup
In a small bowl, beat the two egg yolks. Then, take a portion of the hot soup and gradually add it to the bowl, stirring constantly to temper the eggs. This step will prevent the yolks from curdling. Once the mixture is smooth, pour it back into the pot and stir well. Let it simmer for another minute.

Serving:
To serve the spinach soup, add a few toasted bread croutons on top. They bring a crunchy contrast that makes the soup even more flavorful. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for an elegant touch and richer taste.

Variation suggestions:
- If you want a spicier soup, add a slice of chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute spinach with other greens, such as nettles or kale, for a unique variation.
- Instead of croutons, try adding roasted pumpkin seeds for an extra texture and nutrients.

This spinach soup with croutons is not only a quick recipe but also a healthy choice for any meal. Enjoy it warm and savor every bite!