Easy Spinach Soup
A warm, nutritious spinach soup with tender pasta and savory butter, perfect for a comforting lunch or light dinner, suitable for all spinach lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt 2 1/2 tablespoons of butter.
- Add the chopped carrots, scallions, and finely chopped garlic; sauté until the scallions are soft.
- Bring the chicken broth to a boil, then stir in the small pasta or rice.
- Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the pasta or rice is cooked.
- Just before serving, stir the washed, steamed, coarsely chopped spinach into the hot liquid.
- Cook for two to three minutes until the spinach is tender.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese and/or croutons if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of lemon juice to the soup before serving. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked pasta or rice to speed up the cooking process. Fresh spinach is ideal, but frozen spinach can be a great substitute; just ensure it's well-drained. This recipe can easily be adapted to include other vegetables, like zucchini or peas, for a more colorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spinach soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and croutons for added texture. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Oven Cashew Chicken Salad, which complements the flavors nicely. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a starter for a festive gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid reheating in the microwave to preserve the flavors and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Spinach Soup contains roughly 2331 calories, with 60g protein, 306g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (120% of the Daily Value), iron (100% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2739mg per serving (119% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a great alternative if you're looking for a vegetarian option. It will still provide a flavorful base for the soup. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as vegetable broth can vary in saltiness.
How can I make this soup creamier?
To make the soup creamier, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender to achieve a smoother texture while keeping some chunks for added interest.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the spinach soup for up to three months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Note that the texture may change slightly, so consider adding fresh spinach when reheating for added freshness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).