Herbed Potato Soup
Herbed Potato Soup offers a comforting blend of tender potatoes, fragrant herbs, and creamy milk, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. The subtle basil and parsley enhance the hearty potato base, appealing to both vegetable lovers and those seeking a flavorful, satisfying soup.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes and onions together until potatoes are tender; drain.
- Save the potato water.
- Put the potatoes through a ricer or coarse strainer.
- While potatoes are cooking, melt butter in a heavy 6-quart saucepan.
- Add chopped parsley and basil.
- Blend in flour and seasoning.
- Gradually stir in cold milk.
- Add potato water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly.
- Stir in the mashed potatoes and onions; heat through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of cold milk. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some of the potatoes with cauliflower. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can replace dried basil for added flavor. Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially if you use salted butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the herbed potato soup garnished with additional chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad, such as Creamy Lime Salad, to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a quiche or savory pastry.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Potato Soup contains roughly 718 calories, with 6g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (26% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 599mg per serving (26% 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 make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the texture. The flavors often deepen when allowed to sit, making it even tastier the next day.
Is there a vegan version of this soup?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative, and replace the milk with coconut or almond milk. You can also use vegetable broth instead of potato water for added flavor.
What can I add to make this soup more filling?
To make the soup more filling, consider adding cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even some white beans. You can also stir in some sautéed greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition and texture.
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).