Broccoli and spinach soup is one of those comforting, nutritious dishes that’s perfect for any time of year, whether you’re trying to warm up during the colder months or simply want something light and revitalizing. This soup is a powerhouse of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, and it’s incredibly easy to make. The combination of earthy spinach and the slightly bitter, yet sweet, flavor of broccoli creates a wonderfully balanced soup that’s not only healthy but delicious too.
What’s more, this recipe is adaptable! You can make it smooth or chunky, depending on your preference, and you can add other ingredients to suit your taste. It’s a versatile base to which you can introduce your creativity. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get your daily greens in without even realizing it.
Ready to make this tasty, healthy soup? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Broccoli And Spinach Soup Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this bright, green soup:
- Broccoli (2-3 cups of florets) – Fresh broccoli will give you the best flavor and texture. If you’re in a rush, frozen works too, but fresh will really stand out.
- Fresh spinach (3 cups) – Fresh spinach gives the soup a vibrant color and rich flavor. If you can’t get fresh, frozen spinach is a fine substitute.
- Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds a nice aromatic base and slight sweetness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Garlic enhances the flavor and complements the vegetables.
- Vegetable broth (4 cups) – You can also use chicken broth if you prefer, but vegetable broth keeps this soup completely vegetarian.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon) – For sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Salt and pepper (to taste) – Simple but essential seasonings that will bring all the flavors together.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon) – Adds a burst of brightness to balance the earthy greens.
- Optional: Parmesan cheese (grated, for garnish) – Adds a creamy, savory touch when serving.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have everything you need, let’s get cooking!
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Prep The Veggies
- Wash the broccoli and spinach thoroughly. Break the broccoli into florets and set aside. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
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Sauté The Onion And Garlic
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
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Cook The Broccoli
- Add the broccoli florets to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, letting the broccoli soften slightly.
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Add The Broth
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Add Spinach
- Stir in the spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until it wilts down. It won’t take long, as spinach is very delicate.
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Blend The Soup
- Once everything is tender, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Blend until creamy and smooth.
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Season And Serve
- Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
Ingredient Insights
Each of the ingredients in this soup brings something beneficial to the table:
- Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, broccoli supports your immune system and promotes digestive health. It’s also known for its high antioxidant content, which is great for fighting inflammation and boosting overall health.
- Spinach: Spinach is loaded with iron, calcium, and vitamin A, and it’s one of the best sources of folate. It’s also a good source of antioxidants, which help protect your body’s cells from damage.
- Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and its ability to help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. It adds a subtle, savory flavor to the soup that enhances the earthy greens.
- Vegetable broth: By using vegetable broth, you keep the soup light and plant-based, but it also provides a savory umami depth of flavor that makes the soup rich without being heavy.
- Lemon juice: The acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the entire dish, helping to balance the naturally bitter flavors of the greens and making the soup taste fresh and vibrant.
Expert Tips
- For a smoother texture: If you prefer a velvety texture, blend the soup longer or use a high-speed blender. Some people even add a touch of heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness.
- Add some protein: For a more substantial meal, consider adding some protein. Chickpeas or white beans can be blended into the soup for an extra boost of fiber and protein without altering the flavor too much. You could also toss in some cooked chicken or tofu if you prefer.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer your soup thinner, add more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if you like it thicker, blend it less or use fewer liquids.
- Frozen spinach option: If you can’t find fresh spinach, frozen spinach works just as well. Just be sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pot.
Recipe Variations
While this broccoli and spinach soup is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own:
- Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can elevate the flavor profile of this soup. Add them towards the end of cooking for a fresh herbal note.
- Spicy kick: If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the soup. This will add some heat and complexity to the flavor.
- Cheesy twist: For a richer version, melt some shredded cheese into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. Cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina work wonderfully.
- Creamy alternative: Blend in a little coconut milk or cream for a dairy-free, creamy texture. This makes the soup even more velvety and adds a touch of sweetness to counterbalance the greens.
- Root vegetables: To make the soup heartier, try adding diced potatoes, carrots, or parsnips. These root vegetables not only add flavor but also make the soup more filling.
Final Words
Broccoli and spinach soup is one of those dishes that brings you comfort and nourishment in a single bowl. It’s full of flavor, rich in nutrients, and adaptable to whatever dietary preferences or ingredients you have at hand. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a hearty lunch, or a healthy dinner option, this recipe has you covered.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something wholesome, filling, and satisfying.