Savory Spinach and Fennel Soup

Name: Savory Spinach and Fennel Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bulb fennel, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups fresh spinach; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely love whipping up this Savory Spinach and Fennel Soup on chilly evenings. The combination of fresh spinach and aromatic fennel creates a delightful balance of flavors that warms me from the inside out. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a handful of ingredients. With each spoonful, I’m reminded of cozy family dinners, making it a favorite in my household. Whether I serve it as an appetizer or a light meal, this soup is sure to impress my guests and keep them coming back for more.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-01-29T11:13:07.897Z

Making this soup is one of my go-to routines when the weather gets cold. I remember the first time I decided to blend spinach with fennel; I was skeptical at first. However, watching the ingredients transform into such a vibrant, flavorful soup has made me a firm believer in this pairing. The anise flavor of fennel adds a unique twist that surprises everyone who tries it!

Another reason why I love this recipe is its versatility. You can easily make it vegan by substituting the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. I often experiment by adding chopped potatoes for extra creaminess or sometimes garnish it with croutons for a satisfying crunch. Each variation offers something deliciously unique!

        Why You Will Love This Soup
        Fresh and vibrant flavors that invigorate the senses
Creamy texture without needing excess dairy
Quick to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Nutritious, packed with vitamins and minerals

      

The Role of Fennel

Fennel may not be the first vegetable that comes to mind for soup, but its sweet anise flavor elevates the depth of this dish. When sautéed, fennel develops a caramelized quality, adding a rich, nuanced sweetness that complements the earthy spinach. Look for a firm bulb without blemishes; this ensures a fresh taste. If you’re unable to find fennel, you can substitute with a combination of celery and a small amount of anise seeds for a similar flavor profile.

Adding fennel not only enhances flavor but also contributes nutritional benefits. Fennel is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants, making the soup even more beneficial for your health. This makes it a perfect addition if you’re aiming to create a hearty and nourishing dish that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

One of the standout features of this soup is its creamy texture, which is achieved using heavy cream. Opt for a good quality cream to enhance the richness of the soup. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream, though this may alter the taste slightly. When incorporating the cream, ensure that you do so at low heat to prevent curdling.

After blending, if you find the soup is thicker than you'd like, simply adjust its consistency by adding extra vegetable broth or water gradually. This way, you can control the texture while ensuring it remains perfectly creamy and not too watery. Aim for a velvety, smooth consistency that coats the back of a spoon.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Savory Spinach and Fennel Soup can be served immediately, but its flavors develop even further with a little time. If you have leftovers or plan to make it ahead, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to keep the cream separate if possible, reheating gently before serving to maintain its luscious texture.

For an elevated dining experience, consider garnishing the soup with croutons, a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley also add a delightful freshness. If you're feeling adventurous, a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors, making each bowl even more inviting.

Ingredients

For the soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 bulb fennel, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups fresh spinach
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to add any toppings or herbs you like!

Instructions

Sauté the vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced fennel, cooking until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add spinach and broth

Add the fresh spinach to the pot and cook until wilted. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Blend the soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Once blended, return the soup to the pot.

Finish with cream

Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through for an additional 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious and hearty soup!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try sautéing some thyme or dill with the vegetables. A sprinkle of lemon juice at the end brightens the soup even more!

Ingredient Substitutions

While fresh spinach is the star of this soup, other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard can be excellent substitutes. Just be aware that tougher greens may require a longer cooking time to become tender, so adjust the simmering time accordingly. If you prefer a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or white beans to enhance the nutritional profile and create a more filling meal.

If heavy cream is not available, you can experiment with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, though this should be added after removing the soup from direct heat to avoid curdling. Alternatively, for a dairy-free version, you could use almond milk or soy cream, which will yield a different but still pleasing flavor.

Tips for Smoother Blending

When it comes to blending the soup, using an immersion blender is ideal, as it allows for easy and quick blending directly in the pot. If using a traditional blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly before transferring it in batches to avoid burns and accidents. Always fill the blender no more than halfway to prevent splatter, and hold the lid down firmly with a kitchen towel for added safety.

After blending, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes, a pinch of extra salt or a dash of vinegar can really enhance the overall flavor profile. If the soup becomes too thick during blending, you can always add a splash of broth to reach your preferred consistency.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

If you're looking to make this soup in advance, freezing is a great option. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating is best done over medium-low heat to maintain the creamy texture. If it appears too thick after thawing, add a little vegetable broth to loosen it up. Stir the soup frequently as it warms to ensure even heating, and avoid boiling to keep it creamy and prevent separation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month.

→ Can I use frozen spinach?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup.

→ How can I make this soup vegan?

You can replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream to keep it vegan yet creamy.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.