Imagine a bowl of creamy vegan soup that’s plant-based and full of flavor. This Vegan Creamy Spinach Soup with Cashews and Garlic is made with simple ingredients. It uses spinach, cashews, and garlic to make a rich, dairy-free dish.
Every spoonful mixes earthy greens with the creamy taste of soaked cashews. This shows that vegan cooking can be easy and delicious.
Key Takeaways
- Rich creaminess comes from soaked cashews, not dairy.
- Loaded with vitamins from spinach and heart-healthy fats from nuts.
- Perfect for quick weeknight meals or cozy weekend lunches.
- Easy to customize with optional spices like nutmeg or red pepper flakes.
- Uses common pantry items like vegetable broth and olive oil.
Getting Started: Ingredients & Tools
Before starting your spinach soup, get all the needed items. These basics make simple ingredients into a tasty bowl of soup.
Essential Ingredients for Spinach Soup
Here are the main things you need:
- 1 bunch fresh spinach (or 2 bags frozen, thawed)
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked 2 hours for creamier texture)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced for bold aroma)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium for balanced seasoning)
- salt, pepper, and nutmeg (to taste)
For different tastes, try almond milk or sunflower seeds instead of cashews. Always wash spinach well to get rid of dirt.
Must Have Kitchen Tools
Here are the basic tools you need:
- Stainless steel pot (4-quart minimum)
- Immersion blender or countertop blender
- Colander (for draining spinach)
- Cutting board and chef’s knife
A hand mixer can also work for blending. Choose a pot with a heavy bottom to avoid burning.
Step by Step Preparation
Getting your soup ready is key to its success. Follow these steps to make cooking easier:
- Cashew Prep
- Put cashews in a bowl, cover with warm water, and wait 30 minutes. Drain them to make them creamy.
- Spinach Handling
- Wash spinach in a colander under water. Dry it well with a towel to keep the soup dry. Cut it into small pieces.
- Garlic Treatment
- Peel garlic cloves and chop them finely. You can also press them through a garlic press for a smooth texture.
- Tool Setup
- Have a clean cutting board and sharp knife ready. Use a mesh strainer to drain soaked cashews well.
“A well prepped pantry turns into a masterpiece kitchen.”
To soak cashews faster, microwave the water for 2 minutes. Save leftover soaking liquid in the fridge for salad dressings. Soak cashews overnight if you’re short on time in the morning.
Cooking Your Vegan Creamy Spinach Soup with Cashews and Garlic
Mastering the simmer and blend makes your cashew garlic soup rich and smooth. Follow these steps to get it just right:
Perfecting the Simmering Process
- Heat the pot over medium heat until the broth gently bubbles. Avoid boiling, low and steady heat unlocks flavors.
- Cook spinach, garlic, and cashews for 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor infusion.
- Test for tenderness: Spinach should wilt completely, and garlic should soften without browning.
Achieving Ultimate Creaminess Through Blending
- Transfer half the soup to a blender. Secure the lid and blend on high for 30 seconds. Repeat for the remaining portion.
- Return blended mixture to the pot. Stir well to mix unblended and blended components.
- For extra smoothness, pass the soup through a fine sieve; this step is optional but enhances silkiness.
Add a pinch of salt or pepper post blending to balance flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving. Your creamy cashew garlic soup is ready to enjoy as a hearty, dairy free comfort meal.
Nutritional Benefits & Serving Suggestions
Your Vegan Creamy Spinach Soup is not just warm and cozy. It’s also packed with nutrients. You can make it your own way, too.
Health Highlights of Vegan Spinach Soup
Spinach is full of vitamins A and C. These vitamins help keep you healthy and your eyes bright. Cashews add protein and magnesium, which are good for your heart and bones.
Garlic has special compounds that fight off inflammation. When you mix all these together, you get a meal that’s good for your heart and gives you lots of energy.
Creative Cashew & Garlic Enhancements
Here are some ways to make your soup even better:
- Top with crispy cashew bits or a garlic yogurt sauce for tanginess.
- Pair with whole grain toast or roasted chickpeas for crunch.
- Drizzle olive oil and red pepper flakes for bold flavor contrasts.
Keep leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days. Reheat with a bit of plant based milk for creaminess. Add black pepper or nutritional yeast for more flavor.
Conclusion
Making vegan creamy spinach soup with cashews and garlic is easy. It’s a great way to get a healthy, plant based meal. The mix of spinach, cashews, and garlic makes a smooth soup perfect for relaxing nights.
You can change the recipe to fit your taste. This makes it a great choice for any diet. It’s all about sautéing, simmering, and blending to get that creamy feel.
Enjoy it alone or with bread for extra flavor. The spinach and cashews add protein, iron, and antioxidants. This fits well with today’s healthy eating trends.
Try this recipe again for a comforting, healthy meal. Add toppings like nutritional yeast or olive oil for extra taste. You can make a delicious dish that’s easy to make. Share your soup online to inspire others to try plant based cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the key ingredients in vegan creamy spinach soup?
Vegan creamy spinach soup needs fresh spinach, soaked cashews, and garlic. You also need vegetable broth and spices like salt, pepper, and nutmeg. These make the soup rich and creamy, without any dairy.
How do I achieve the creaminess in cashew garlic soup?
For creamy cashew garlic soup, soak the cashews first. This makes them soft. Then, blend them with other ingredients for a smooth, luxurious soup.
Can I modify the recipe for spinach soup to suit my dietary needs?
Yes, you can change the spinach soup recipe to fit your diet. If you can’t have nuts, use silken tofu or cooked potatoes. They add creaminess without nuts.
How long can I store the leftover spinach soup?
You can keep leftover vegan creamy spinach soup in the fridge for 3-5 days. For longer, freeze it. It can last 2-3 months in the freezer.
What are some creative serving suggestions for this soup?
Try new ways to serve spinach soup. Add fresh herbs or roasted chickpeas for protein. Serve it with bread or a salad for a full meal.
Is this spinach soup recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This spinach soup is great for meal prep. Make a big batch and use it for lunches or dinners all week. It’s perfect for busy days.