Spinach is one of the most nutritious vegetables, which contains high levels of vitamins A and C, folate, calcium, and iron. There are various food recipes that include spinach as an ingredient. It is mainly used for preparing soups, quiches, casseroles, burritos, sandwich, and sauces. Spinach soup can be used as a starter or as a light lunch. It is always better to go for fresh spinach for best results. Fresh Spinach Soup Ingredients

• Fresh spinach leaves - 500 grams
• Shallots - 2 (sliced)
• Medium-sized potato - 1 (diced)
• Medium-sized leek - 1 (sliced)
• Fresh thyme sprigs - 2
• Water - 4 cups
• Olive oil - as per requirement
• Salt and pepper - as per taste

How to Prepare Take a pan with a heavy bottom, and place it over medium heat. As the oil gets warm, add shallots, potato, and leek, and saute for a few minutes. Once the contents of the pan soften, add water, and bring to a boil. The next step is to simmer it for at least 30 minutes. After that, add spinach, and cook over medium heat for another five minutes. The leaves will get dark and soft. Turn off the stove, and let the contents cool for some time. Once the contents cool down, blend them in a food processor, to make a puree. Pour the mixture into the pan, and heat it slightly (don't boil). The soup is ready to be served. You may either use warm croutons or grated cheese as garnishing. Cream of Spinach Soup Ingredients

• Fresh spinach (chopped) - 2 cups
• Peeled and diced potatoes - 3
• Chopped onions - 1 cup
• Butter - ¼ cup
• Chicken bouillon cubes (or vegetable bouillon cubes) - 2
• Chicken broth (or vegetable broth) - 1½ cups
• Half and half - 2 cups
• Sour cream - ¾ cup
• Water - 1½ cups
• Salt - ½ tsp.
• Pepper - ¼ tsp.

Preparation Method Place a large saucepan over medium heat, and add butter. As the butter melts, add onion and saute for a few minutes. Add bullion cubes, broth, potatoes, and water, and bring them to boil. Simmer and cook for around 30 minutes. As the potatoes soften, add the chopped spinach leaves, and cook for another five minutes. Turn off the stove, and let the contents of the saucepan cool. Once the contents get cool, blend them in a blender. You may do this in batches. Pour the pureed contents to the saucepan, and mix half and half, salt, and pepper. Keep the saucepan back on the stove over low heat. Mix sour cream, and turn off the heat. The soup is ready to serve. Try these spinach soup recipes, and enjoy the health benefits offered by this leafy vegetable.