Spinach and Potato Soup 

Instructions for Making Spinach and Potato Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will bring out the flavors of the onion and garlic, forming a great base for the soup.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

• Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Add the diced potatoes to the pot.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Add the Spinach and Seasonings

• Once the potatoes are cooked through, add the fresh spinach to the pot. If you’re using frozen spinach, add it at this stage as well. The spinach will wilt down quickly into the soup.
• Stir in the dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the spinach to fully cook and the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)

• For a creamy texture, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply blend part of the soup and leave some potato chunks intact for added texture.
• If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender, blend, and then return it to the pot. This will create a velvety smooth soup.

Step 5: Add the Cream (Optional)

• If you like a richer, creamier soup, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream at this point. This step is optional, but it will create a luxurious texture and enhance the flavor. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the soup is hot and the cream is fully incorporated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Once the soup is creamy and heated through, taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Spinach and Potato Soup:

• Potato Variety: You can use any type of potato for this soup, but russet potatoes are the most common as they break down easily and make the soup thicker. Yukon gold potatoes are another good choice if you prefer a creamier texture.
• Make it Vegan: To make this soup vegan, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like carrots, celery, or leeks for additional flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty kick.

Why You’ll Love This Spinach and Potato Soup:

This Spinach and Potato Soup is a fantastic dish that strikes the perfect balance between rich, creamy texture and light, earthy flavor. It’s a great way to get more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a comforting, satisfying meal. Whether served for a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or a cozy lunch, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

This soup also works well as a starter or side dish for a more elaborate meal. You can pair it with a hearty bread or a light salad for a well-rounded, nutritious meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize to your personal tastes—whether you prefer it extra creamy, with added vegetables, or even a little spicy, this soup is versatile enough to adapt to your needs.

So, next time you’re craving a simple yet satisfying meal, try this Spinach and Potato Soup. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and absolutely perfect for warming up on a cool day.