Spinach And Garlic Soup
A hearty spinach and garlic soup with aromatic herbs, tender potatoes, and a savory Parmesan topping, perfect for warming and nourishing in any season.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped garlic, chopped onion, diced carrots, chopped celery, and chopped dry basil.
- Stir for 4 to 5 minutes, taking care not to let the garlic brown.
- Add chicken stock, chopped spinach, and diced potatoes to the saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook until the potatoes are done.
- Serve the soup topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of the soup, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. If you're out of chicken stock, vegetable stock can be a great substitute for a vegetarian option. For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also add brightness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is delicious on its own but can be paired with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad, such as Spinach Salad With Strawberries And Almonds And Sesame Seed. For a heartier meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a light sandwich. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if desired.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spinach and garlic soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or stock to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach And Garlic Soup contains roughly 1431 calories, with 36g protein, 265g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (220% of the Daily Value), and potassium (106% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1483mg per serving (64% 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 frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach for this soup. However, be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the soup. Add it towards the end of cooking, as it requires less time to heat through compared to fresh spinach.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock. All other ingredients remain the same, preserving the rich flavors of the soup while keeping it meat-free.
What can I add for extra protein?
For extra protein, consider adding cooked beans or lentils to the soup. Alternatively, shredded rotisserie chicken or diced tofu can also be incorporated, enhancing both the nutritional value and heartiness of the dish.
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).