If you’re craving a comforting, velvety bowl of green goodness, this Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. It transforms humble spinach into a luscious, creamy delight that’s both nourishing and indulgent. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a simple yet flavorful meal, this soup balances fresh spinach with aromatic garlic and onions, gently simmered and blended to silky perfection. Whether served as a starter or a light meal, this recipe is bound to become one of your favorites, showcasing how a few wholesome ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe calls for straightforward, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to deliver rich flavor and smooth texture. Each component plays a vital role in crafting the soup’s inviting aroma, bright green color, and creamy consistency.
- Fresh spinach (1 lb): The star of the show, packed with nutrients and vibrant color.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
- Small onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth to the base of the soup.
- Garlic cloves (2), minced: Infuses a savory, aromatic punch that complements the spinach beautifully.
- Vegetable broth (3 cups): Creates the flavorful liquid base—chicken broth can be used for extra savory notes.
- Whole milk (1 cup): Adds creaminess without overpowering the delicate spinach taste; heavy cream is optional for a richer finish.
- Butter (1 tbsp): Elevates the texture and adds a cozy warmth to the soup.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for balancing flavors—adjust to taste.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): A subtle spice to enhance and round out the soup.
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp, optional): Just a pinch adds a lovely, warm complexity.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, optional): Perfect for garnishing with a salty, nutty finish.
How to Make Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and release their fragrant aroma. This step builds the foundation of flavor, creating a savory base that complements the spinach beautifully.
Step 2: Wilt the Spinach
Next, toss in your fresh spinach and cook it just until it wilts in the pot. This quick cooking helps to preserve the bright color and fresh taste while softening the leaves for easy blending later.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth, sprinkle in salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, giving the soup time to meld these flavors together and cook the spinach thoroughly, about five minutes. This simmering makes the soup fragrant and sets the stage for blending.
Step 4: Blend the Soup Until Smooth
Using an immersion blender right in your pot, puree the soup gently until it turns silky and smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully ladle the soup into a blender in batches. You’ll love how the soup transforms here — what was once leafy spinach becomes a creamy, inviting green bowl full of goodness.
Step 5: Stir in the Creaminess
Finish by stirring in your whole milk or heavy cream for that luxurious mouthfeel. Warm the soup on low heat for a couple more minutes, just enough to marry all the flavors without boiling, ensuring it remains silky and luscious.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and maybe some fresh herbs. Grab a piece of crusty bread or some crunchy croutons, and you have yourself a meal that’s as comforting as a warm hug.
How to Serve Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a sharp, salty note that enhances the soup’s richness. Fresh parsley or chives can brighten the bowl with a pop of color and freshness, making every bite even more inviting.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty artisan bread, garlic toast, or crispy croutons to provide a delightful contrast between creamy and crunchy textures. A light green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette also complements the earthy flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for an impressive presentation. You can also swirl in a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of flavored olive oil for a gourmet touch. For a fun twist, top with toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon for added texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows the flavors to deepen even more, making the next meal just as satisfying.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! Pour leftovers into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Frozen, it will keep for up to two months, making it a perfect pre-made meal for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or broth can help restore its creamy texture after freezing. Avoid boiling to keep the flavors fresh and the texture smooth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach works well if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting the soup’s flavor.
Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?
Yes, you can substitute the milk or cream with coconut milk or any plant-based milk. Use olive oil instead of butter to keep it fully dairy-free while maintaining richness.
How can I make this soup more filling?
Try adding cooked potatoes or white beans during the cooking phase for extra body and protein. Topping with toasted nuts or seeds also adds satisfying texture and nutrients.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Definitely. In fact, the flavors often improve after resting in the fridge overnight. Just reheat gently before serving to keep it silky smooth.
What spices work well with this soup?
Nutmeg is a classic pairing with spinach, but you can also experiment with a pinch of curry powder, smoked paprika, or even a touch of cayenne for a subtle kick.
Final Thoughts
This Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create something heartwarming and delicious. Whether you’re new to making soup or a seasoned cook, this recipe is easy to follow and reliably satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try, savor the vibrant flavors, and maybe even share it with someone special — because good food is always better when enjoyed together.
Print
Cream of Spinach Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy and comforting Cream of Spinach Soup is a quick and easy recipe that combines fresh spinach with aromatic sautéed onions and garlic, blended into a smooth and velvety texture. Enriched with milk and a touch of butter, it offers a warm, nourishing meal perfect for any day of the year.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 lb fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Fats
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 1 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)
Seasonings
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
Garnish (Optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts down.
- Add broth and seasoning: Pour in the vegetable broth along with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes to allow the spinach to fully cook and flavors to blend.
- Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more broth or milk as necessary.
- Add creaminess: Stir in the whole milk or heavy cream, then warm the soup over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure it is heated through and creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve alongside crusty bread or croutons for added comfort.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen spinach can be used as a substitute; just thaw and drain well before cooking.
- Adjust the consistency by varying the amount of broth or milk you add after blending.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil, use vegetable broth, and replace milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- Adding nutmeg enhances the flavor but can be omitted if preferred.
- The Parmesan cheese garnish can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
