Spinach cream of mushroom soup recipe is one of my favorite comfort foods. It offers a delightful blend of earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach. This soup not only warms you up but packs a nutritious punch. Perfect for a rainy day or as a starter for a fancy dinner, this dish is easy to whip up and utterly satisfying.
Why I Love Spinach Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
This dish is close to my heart because it combines two of my favorite ingredients: spinach and mushrooms. Both contribute great flavors and textures to the soup. Spinach adds a slight sweetness and vibrant green color. The mushrooms enhance the earthy notes, making the soup rich and hearty.
Ingredients for Spinach Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Understanding the ingredients will help you appreciate this dish even more. Here’s what you need for a delightful bowl of soup:
- Fresh spinach, chopped
- Button or cremini mushrooms, sliced
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- Heavy cream or milk
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
- Thyme, optional for flavor
How to Make Spinach Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Making this soup is quite simple. Here’s a straightforward method you can follow:
- Sauté the onions and garlic until softer.
- Add the mushrooms and cook until browned.
- Stir in chopped spinach until wilted.
- Pour in the broth and let it simmer.
- Blend the soup for a creamy texture.
- Return to heat and add cream or milk.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
How to Sauté the Vegetables
Sautéing is a key step in making this soup. Here’s how I usually do it:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic for added flavor.
- Finally, add sliced mushrooms, allowing them to brown nicely.
Choosing the Right Mushrooms
When it comes to mushrooms, I prefer using either button or cremini. Each has its characteristics:
- Button mushrooms are mild and very accessible.
- Cremini mushrooms are a bit more intense, offering deeper flavors.
Feel free to mix both types for a more complex taste. This choice depends on your preference and availability.
Using Fresh Spinach
For this recipe, fresh spinach truly shines. It wilts beautifully and adds a lovely bright hue. Here’s how I prepare it:
- Rinse the spinach to remove any dirt.
- Remove any tough stems.
- Roughly chop or leave whole for larger pieces.
Fresh spinach has a vibrant flavor and contributes a lot of nutrients to the soup.
Making it Creamy
For that luxurious, creamy texture, I recommend using heavy cream or whole milk. Here’s a tip:
- If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or evaporated milk.
Once you blend the soup, slowly stir in the cream. This ensures a good mix and keeps it from curdling.
Seasoning Matters
Seasoning your soup is essential for building flavor. Here’s what I typically use:
- Start with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add fresh or dried thyme if you want an herbal note.
Always taste as you go. Adjusting the seasoning allows you to find the perfect balance.
Blending for Smoothness
Blending the soup is where the magic happens. You can use a blender or an immersion blender:
- If using a regular blender, do this in small batches.
- An immersion blender lets you blend right in the pot.
The blending process turns the mixture into a silky soup, making it more enjoyable to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Once your soup is ready, here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.
- Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad.
- Top with croutons for added crunch.
Storing Leftovers
One great thing about spinach cream of mushroom soup is it stores well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Allow the soup to cool completely.
- Transfer it to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
When reheating, make sure to stir well. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.
Nutritional Benefits Spinach Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
This spinach cream of mushroom soup is full of nutritious ingredients. Here are some benefits:
- Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Mushrooms provide antioxidants and boost the immune system.
- Using broth adds flavor without extra calories or fat.
I hope you find joy in making this spinach cream of mushroom soup recipe. It’s perfect for cozy nights in or when you want to impress guests. The combination of flavors and textures is simply superb. Enjoy cooking and savor your delicious soup!