Name: Creamy Broccoli and Spinach Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 small onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen); 2 cups fresh spinach; 3½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper; Optional: pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes

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If you are searching for a delightful way to enjoy your greens, this Creamy Broccoli and Spinach Soup Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It’s wonderfully smooth and velvety, blending the fresh, vibrant flavors of broccoli and spinach into a comforting bowl of goodness. What makes this soup truly a standout is its perfect balance of creaminess without feeling too heavy, making it a nourishing meal for lunch or a light dinner. Ready in just about 30 minutes, it’s simple, wholesome, and packs a powerful punch of nutrients and flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of fresh and frozen ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the top center, there is a small glass bowl filled with a light brown liquid. To the left, a whole brown onion sits next to fresh green parsley sprigs, with stalks of celery extending diagonally from the top right corner. Below the onion, there are several garlic cloves and a small piece of ginger root. In the middle right, a glass bowl holds frozen chopped green vegetables, and below it, another glass bowl contains frozen broccoli florets with icy crystals on them. At the bottom left, a small glass bowl holds three types of finely ground spices arranged in separate sections: a dark brown, a deep red, and a bright orange powder. The whole scene is brightly lit, showing clear textures of each ingredient. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential for building layers of flavor, creating a creamy texture, and delivering that gorgeous green color that makes it irresistible. Here’s exactly what you’ll want to gather before you start cooking:

2 tbsp olive oil or butter: Provides the base fat for sautéing onion and garlic, adding depth and richness.
1 small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that wakes up your taste buds.
4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen): Packed with vitamins and fiber, they bring hearty texture and vibrant green color.
2 cups fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, earthy note and extra nutrients while melting beautifully into the soup.
3½ cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth): Creates the flavorful liquid foundation that blends all the ingredients harmoniously.
½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half): Brings the luscious creaminess that makes this soup so comforting and indulgent.
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly without overpowering.
¼ tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and mild spice for balance.
Optional: pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes: For those who love a little extra warmth or kick to their creamy soup.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Spinach Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by warming your olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook it gently for about 4 to 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is key, as it builds a flavorful foundation. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned, ensuring it doesn’t overpower the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Add your broccoli florets along with the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. This tenderizes the broccoli fully, softening it enough for the perfect creamy texture once blended.

Step 3: Wilt the Spinach

Once the broccoli is fork-tender, stir in the fresh spinach. It will quickly wilt in just 1 to 2 minutes, adding vibrant color and an extra nutritional boost. This quick cooking preserves its bright flavor and prevents it from becoming slimy.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender right in the pot or transferring the soup to a regular blender in batches, blend all ingredients patiently until a silky smooth consistency is achieved. The blending transforms the broccoli and spinach into a luscious, creamy liquid that’s so comforting to eat.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings

Return the soup to low heat and gently stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you fancy, a pinch of nutmeg or red pepper flakes for an extra flavor dimension. Warm the soup for 2 to 3 minutes more without boiling, keeping the cream smooth and velvety.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Spinach Soup Recipe

Creamy Broccoli and Spinach Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Elevate your soup with simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a few toasted pine nuts for crunch. Fresh herbs such as chives or parsley add a pop of color while enhancing the herbal notes.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs brilliantly with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping into its creamy goodness. A light mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the richness, making for a balanced meal that feels elegant yet comforting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Broccoli and Spinach Soup Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls or mini pumpkins during cooler months. You can also swirl in a bit of pesto or swirl some Greek yogurt on top for a beautiful, Instagram-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the next day’s bowl even more delicious.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, leaving some headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to three months, so you can enjoy it anytime you crave a warm, creamy green soup.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If it thickens too much, simply add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling to keep that silky texture perfectly smooth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works fine, but be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid extra water in your soup, which might thin out the creaminess.

Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?

You can easily make it vegan by swapping the butter for olive oil and using coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative instead of heavy cream.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Cauliflower or peas blend nicely and complement the broccoli and spinach flavors, adding different textures and nutrients.

How do I make the soup thicker or thinner?

To thicken, cook a little longer uncovered to reduce liquid. To thin it, just add more broth or water until it reaches your preferred consistency.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut milk make great substitutes. Just keep in mind that non-dairy options may slightly change the flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats a bowl of this Creamy Broccoli and Spinach Soup Recipe when you want something nourishing, comforting, and easy to whip up. Its vibrant color and rich texture are sure to brighten your day and inspire you to get creative with greens in the kitchen. Give it a try — your taste buds and your body will thank you!