Description
Craving a healthy, vibrant soup that’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor? This Cottage Cheese Spinach Soup is your perfect choice! Combining the earthy goodness of fresh spinach with the creamy, protein-rich texture of cottage cheese, this soup is a light yet satisfying meal
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make this Cottage Cheese Spinach Soup. Each ingredient adds to the creamy, earthy, and zesty magic.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing, adding a subtle fruity note.
- Onion (1, chopped): Provides a sweet, savory base.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic depth.
- Fresh Spinach (6 cups): The star ingredient, delivering earthy flavor and nutrients.
- Vegetable Broth (4 cups): Creates the perfect soup consistency and adds depth.
- Cottage Cheese (1 cup): Adds creamy texture and protein.
- Lemon Juice (1 teaspoon): Brightens the flavor with a tangy kick.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Seasons the soup to perfection.
Substitutions and Variations
- Olive Oil: Swap with avocado oil or butter (if not strictly vegetarian).
- Spinach: Use kale, arugula, or Swiss chard, adjusting cooking time to wilt properly.
- Cottage Cheese: Replace with ricotta, Greek yogurt, or vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Vegetable Broth: Substitute with chicken broth (if not vegetarian) or water with a bouillon cube.
- Lemon Juice: Use lime juice or a splash of white wine vinegar for a different tang.
- Add-Ins: Stir in ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, a pinch of nutmeg, or ¼ cup grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning; onions should be translucent, not browned.
Step 2: Cook the Spinach
- Add 6 cups fresh spinach to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes until wilted, stirring occasionally.
Tip: Add spinach in batches if needed to fit in the pot; it will reduce significantly as it wilts.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Tip: Ensure the spinach is fully softened for easier blending.
Step 4: Blend and Add Cottage Cheese
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup cottage cheese and 1 teaspoon lemon juice, blending or stirring until fully incorporated and creamy.
Tip: If using a regular blender, work in batches and blend carefully to avoid hot splashes; return to the pot after blending.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or lemon juice as needed.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot.
Tip: For an ultra-smooth texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve after blending (optional