Main courses
Spinach Velouté (Vellutata di Spinaci)
A silky, elegant green soup with delicate spinach flavor, gentle sweetness from leek and potato, and a creamy texture worthy of a gourmet starter.
Recipe video
Main courses
A silky, elegant green soup with delicate spinach flavor, gentle sweetness from leek and potato, and a creamy texture worthy of a gourmet starter.
Recipe video
Wash the spinach well and drain it. Slice the leek, chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the potato into small cubes.
In a soup pot, melt the butter with the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add leek and onion, then cook gently for 5 to 6 minutes until soft, glossy, and lightly sweet.
Stir in the garlic and potato. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring, so the potato absorbs the flavor base.
Pour in the hot vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, until the potato is completely tender.
Add the spinach in batches, stirring until wilted. Cook for 2 minutes only, so the color stays vivid.
Blend until perfectly smooth. Stir in cream, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Reheat very gently for 1 minute without boiling. Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot.
Time 30 minutes
Difficulty Easy
Calories about 185 per serving
Vegetarian gourmet soup
Finish with a swirl of cream, cracked pepper, a few drops of olive oil, crispy croutons, and tiny sautéed spinach leaves. Serve with warm artisan bread. A chilled glass of dry white wine or sparkling water with lemon works beautifully.
For a lighter version, reduce the cream and add extra broth. For extra elegance, strain after blending. Do not overcook the spinach or the color will dull.