Creamy Spinach Soup 🌿🥣

This delightful Cream of Spinach Soup is a comforting dish that's not only creamy and rich but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or looking for a light yet satisfying meal, this soup is perfect! It’s easy to prepare and can be made with fresh or frozen spinach, making it a versatile option year-round. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad for a wholesome meal. 🍞🥗

Ingredients

For the soup

• 2 quarts fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ quart milk
• ½ cup chopped onion
• Cayenne pepper to taste (optional)

Instructions

1. Make a roux: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and salt, cooking for about 5 minutes until lightly golden. This forms the base for your creamy soup.

   🌱 A roux is crucial for texture! Make sure to cook it long enough to remove the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it darken too much.

2. Add milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.

3. Prepare the spinach: Cook your fresh or frozen spinach to your liking—steaming, sautéing, or boiling all work great!

4. Combine and blend: Mash the cooked spinach and chopped onion through a wire strainer (or blend if you prefer a smoother texture), and then stir it into the milk mixture.

5. Season to taste: Add additional salt and cayenne pepper if desired, and let it simmer gently for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.

   🥄 If you like a chunkier texture, reserve some spinach before mashing it and add it back into the soup for a delightful bite!

Variations

• Dairy-free: Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk alternative and use a dairy-free butter substitute for a creamy vegan version. You may also want to blend in some silken tofu for added creaminess.
• Herb-infused: Add some fresh herbs such as dill or basil to the onion while sautéing for a flavor boost. Just be mindful of the herbs' strengths to get a balance!
• Protein-packed: Stir in some cooked chopped chicken or white beans for an extra protein kick!
• Spicy twist: For a bolder flavor, add a splash of your favorite hot sauce alongside the cayenne pepper or top the soup with some crispy chili oil.

This Creamy Spinach Soup brings warmth and nutrition to your table, making it a comforting choice any day of the week! Enjoy every spoonful! 🥄🌿