Cream of Spinach Soup: A Hearty and Healthy Recipe

Indulge in the comforting warmth of this Cream of Spinach Soup, a dish that perfectly combines healthful ingredients with rich flavors. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious meal. Here's how to create this delightful soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 1 stalk of celery, chopped

• 1 carrot, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 2 tomatoes, chopped

• 5 cups of low-fat, low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 can of white kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 bag of baby spinach

• A pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, garlic, and thyme. Cook these until the onion has softened, which should take about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for your soup.

2. Add Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped tomatoes into the pot and cook them for another 2 minutes. The tomatoes will add a natural sweetness and richness to the soup.

3. Simmer with Broth and Beans: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the white kidney beans. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The beans will add a creamy texture and protein to the soup.

4. Prepare the Spinach: While the soup is simmering, finely chop the baby spinach and set it aside. This will be added later to maintain its vibrant color and texture.

5. Puree the Soup: In batches, carefully puree the soup in a blender until smooth. Then, return the soup to the pot. This process creates a creamy and smooth texture for the soup.

6. Add Spinach and Season: Bring the soup to a gentle boil and add the chopped spinach, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is tender, wilted, and bright green, which should take about 5 minutes.

This Cream of Spinach Soup recipe yields 4 to 6 servings, making it perfect for a family meal or for meal prep. It's a delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables while savoring a comforting and hearty bowl of soup.