Creamy Spinach and Almond Soup Recipe

Spinach is one of those versatile ingredients that can be transformed into countless delightful dishes, but none is quite as comforting and satisfying as a spinach soup. The combination of spinach with almonds provides a unique nutty richness that balances the vibrant, earthy tones of the greens. This spinach and almond soup is a smooth puree, perfect for a comforting meal, or even as an elegant dish for entertaining. Its velvety texture, enhanced by a touch of almond and spices, makes it a treat for both the eyes and the palate.

In this article, we'll guide you through the process of creating this delicious spinach and almond soup step by step. By the end, you'll have a beautifully blended, flavorful soup that can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of crispy bread. Let’s dive into the details.

Ingredients

For this spinach and almond soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 500g fresh spinach (cleaned and roughly chopped)
• 100g almonds (blanched and finely ground)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 500ml vegetable broth (unsalted)
• 200ml unsweetened almond milk (can be substituted with plant-based or regular milk)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Toasted almond slices (for topping)
• Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill for a pop of color)
• Whole-grain bread (optional, to serve on the side)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Almonds

To begin, blanch the almonds if they haven’t been pre-blanched. To do this, bring a pot of water to boil, add the almonds, and let them simmer for about 1-2 minutes. Drain and rinse them with cold water, then peel the skins off. Next, finely grind the almonds using a food processor or a spice grinder until they reach a fine powder consistency.

Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning. The garlic should release its aroma but not turn brown.

Step 3: Cooking the Spinach

Add the fresh spinach to the pot in batches, allowing it to wilt down as it cooks. Spinach releases water and reduces in size quickly, so continue stirring and adding more until all of it has wilted. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Adding Almonds and Broth

Once the spinach is fully wilted, add the ground almonds to the pot and stir to combine. The ground almonds will start to thicken the mixture. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This will give the flavors time to meld together.

Step 5: Blending the Soup

Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, working in batches. Make sure the soup has cooled a bit before blending to prevent any accidents from hot splashes.

Step 6: Adding Almond Milk and Seasoning

Once the soup is blended and smooth, return it to low heat. Stir in the almond milk, which will give the soup a creamy consistency without overpowering the flavors. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to warm through for another 5 minutes but avoid bringing it to a boil again.

Step 7: Serving the Soup

Your spinach and almond soup is now ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls, and garnish with toasted almond slices for added crunch. Fresh herbs such as parsley or dill can also be sprinkled on top for an extra touch of freshness. Serve with a side of whole-grain bread for dipping, and enjoy your homemade creamy spinach delight!

Tips for Perfect Spinach and Almond Soup

• Fresh spinach is recommended for the best flavor, but you can also use frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available. Make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the soup to prevent excess water.
• Almonds add a rich, nutty flavor to the soup. If you prefer a lighter texture, you can substitute a portion of the ground almonds with almond flour or use fewer almonds based on your taste preferences.
• Vegetable broth should be unsalted or low-sodium to give you more control over the seasoning. You can also make your own broth by simmering vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions in water for about 30 minutes.

Variations

• Spinach and Potato Soup: For an even heartier version, you can add peeled and chopped potatoes along with the onions at the beginning. The potatoes will add thickness and make the soup more filling.
• Coconut Almond Spinach Soup: Replace the almond milk with coconut milk for a tropical twist. Coconut adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with spinach.
• Spiced Spinach Soup: To give your soup a flavorful kick, try adding spices like cumin, paprika, or even a pinch of curry powder when sautéing the onions and garlic.

How to Store Spinach and Almond Soup

If you have any leftovers, the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup over low heat, adding a little extra almond milk or broth if it has thickened too much.

For longer storage, you can freeze the spinach and almond soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing due to the almond content, but it will still taste delicious.

Conclusion

Spinach and almond soup is a delicious way to incorporate more greens into your meals while also enjoying the creamy, nutty flavor of almonds. This recipe is simple to make and versatile enough to be tailored to your taste, whether you prefer a more traditional version or enjoy experimenting with variations. With a velvety texture and comforting warmth, this soup is perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a starter for a special dinner. Serve it with some toasted bread and enjoy a bowl full of wholesome flavors.

By following this recipe, you’ll have a delightful, nutritious spinach and almond soup that’s not only easy to make but also packed with rich, vibrant flavors!