On a chilly night, when the outside world turns cool and golden, a warm and nourishing meal is the best comfort. Creamy Chestnut, Spinach, and Green Pea Soup is just such a tempting dish. It perfectly blends the aroma of sweet chestnuts with the rustic flavor of spinach, complemented by the vibrant color of green peas, making every bite a blissful experience.
Why choose Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup?
Warm and comforting: This soup is ideal for chilly nights, bringing unparalleled comfort.
Nutritious: Rich in vitamins and minerals, low in calories and healthy.
Gluten-free: Suitable for all dietary needs, everyone can enjoy it.
Quick and easy: An elegant meal can be served in just 40 minutes, perfect for busy workdays or parties.
Unique Flavor: The distinctive combination of sweet chestnuts, rustic spinach, and vibrant green peas makes every bite a delightful surprise.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy the complete dining experience with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients:
Chestnuts: Provide natural sweetness and nutty flavor; halve and cook until tender.
Spinach: Adds vibrant color and essential nutrients; can be fresh or frozen.
Green Peas: Brings a touch of sweetness and a refreshing green color; frozen green peas are a great alternative.
Leeks: A mild onion flavor that enhances the soup without overpowering other ingredients.
Garlic: Infuses the soup with a rich flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté ingredients and add richness to the soup; unsalted butter can be substituted.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Used as a base; vegetable broth can be used to create a vegetarian version.
Sour Cream: Adds a luxurious creamy texture; Greek yogurt is a low-calorie alternative.
Preparation Steps
Prepare Chestnuts: Halve the chestnuts and boil for 15-20 minutes until tender. Let cool slightly before peeling.
Sauté Ingredients: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add leeks and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Mix Ingredients: Add peeled chestnuts and stock, and bring to a gentle boil.
Slow Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Add Leafy Greens: Add spinach and green beans, cover again, and simmer for 3-4 minutes until the green beans are tender and the spinach is wilted.
Smooth Blending: Remove from heat and stir the soup with an immersion blender until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a spoonful of sour cream for richness. Optional chestnut chips add crunch.
Storage & Freezing
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3 days. When serving, heat slowly on the stovetop, adding a small amount of broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Freezing: Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Before serving, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then heat on the stovetop at a low temperature, stirring occasionally to maintain smoothness.
Variations and Innovations
Protein Enhancement: Add shredded cooked chicken or canned beans to increase protein and flavor.
Green Upgrade: Replace spinach with Swiss chard for a stronger flavor and richer nutrition.
Herbal Enhancement: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, basil, or dill to enhance aroma and freshness.
Creamy Upgrade: Add a small amount of cream or coconut milk to make the soup richer.
Spicy Upgrade: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or chili powder for those who like it spicy.
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
Lemon Enhancement: Squeeze fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavor and provide a refreshing experience.
Vegetable Variety: Adding other seasonal vegetables like carrots or zucchini adds color and nutrition, and is also a great way to clean out the refrigerator.
Pairing Suggestions:
Crusted Bread: Warm, crusty bread contrasts perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup, making every bite satisfying.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a sweet and sour dressing adds brightness and balance to the soup.
Garlic Bread: Garlic bread not only enhances the aroma of the dish but also provides a crisp, buttery texture, complementing the warm soup perfectly.
Roasted Root Vegetables: The natural sweetness of roasted carrots and parsnips pairs perfectly with the rustic flavor of the soup, adding a touch of country charm.
Cheese Platter: Choose creamy and sour cheeses to elevate the dining experience. Enjoy the contrasting textures with goat cheese and crunchy nuts.
Vanilla Quinoa: Light, fluffy vanilla quinoa brings nutty flavors and a chewy texture, complementing the rustic flavor of the soup while adding nutrition.
Sparkling Water: A glass of sparkling water with a lemon slice enhances the meal, refreshing and cutting through any richness.
Dessert: Enjoy a light fruit smoothie after your meal, perfectly balancing the warmth of the soup and embracing seasonal fruit.
Expert Tips:
Chestnut Selection: Choose fresh, firm chestnuts, avoiding those with cracks or mold. Overly soft chestnuts won't provide the desired sweetness and texture.
Perfect Sautéing: Make sure to sauté the leeks and garlic over medium heat. Too high a heat may burn them, affecting the overall flavor.
Slow Cooking Secret: After adding the stock, let the soup simmer gently. This brings out the best flavor; don't rush it!
Stirring Technique: For an ultra-smooth texture, stir thoroughly. If you prefer some texture, reserve some green peas or chestnuts and add them after stirring.
Storage Wisdom: When storing leftover soup, ensure it's completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness. Reheat slowly before serving, adding a small amount of stock to restore a creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of chestnuts should I use?: Choose fresh, firm chestnuts without cracks or mold, and that feel heavy. Chestnuts that are too soft won't provide the desired sweetness and nutty flavor.
How to store leftover soup?: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. Make sure it's completely cooled before sealing. When serving, slowly reheat on the stovetop, remembering to add a small amount of water or broth to maintain a creamy texture!
Can I freeze Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup?: Absolutely! Pour the cooled soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When serving, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on a low heat in a saucepan. Stir occasionally to keep it smooth!
What if the soup becomes too thick after stirring?: Don't worry! If the soup becomes too thick, simply add small amounts of broth or water at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Make sure to reheat slowly after adding liquids to keep it warm and delicious.
Is this soup suitable for people with allergies? Yes! This delicious Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup is not only gluten-free, but it can also be easily made into a vegan version by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you have specific allergies, please carefully check the ingredient label, especially for broth and sour cream or Greek yogurt substitutes. Safety first!
Creamy Chestnut, Spinach, and Green Pea Soup: The Perfect Choice for a Warm Night
On a chilly night, a bowl of warm and nourishing Chestnut Spinach and Green Pea Soup brings unparalleled comfort.
Reviewed by EL KATIBI MARIA
on
February 10, 2026
Rating:
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