Easy Creamy Quinoa Soup For A Delightful Evening

by Julia
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August 29, 2023

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Indulge in a bowl of pure culinary bliss with our Creamy Quinoa Soup Recipe. Velvety waves of cream envelop nutty quinoa, transforming each spoonful into a luxurious adventure. This soup is a harmony of flavors and textures, a silky symphony that dances on your taste buds. Dive into a world of wholesome decadence, where comfort meets nourishment in perfect balance. It’s not just a soup; it’s a symphony of satisfaction, waiting to be savored one creamy slurp at a time.

In the vast tapestry of culinary traditions, the quest for heartwarming, nutritious comfort knows no boundaries. Enter the world of Creamy Quinoa Soup—a harmonious blend of ancient grains and luscious flavors that invites a symphony of tastes with every spoonful.

Quinoa, often haile as the “golden grain of the Andes,” lends its rich protein profile to this delicacy, transforming a simple soup into a protein-packed experience. As it simmers, the subtle nuttiness of quinoa melds seamlessly with a velvety broth, creating a texture and depth that beckons you to dive in.

What Is Creamy Quinoa Soup?

Creamy Quinoa Soup is a sumptuous blend of quinoa, a protein-rich grain native to the Andes, and a velvety broth infused with select herbs and vegetables. The combination delivers a texture that’s both hearty and smooth.

Nutty undertones from the quinoa are beautifully juxtaposed with the rich creaminess of the soup base, making it a nutritious and comforting dish.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

The Creamy Quinoa Soup can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary preferences. Here’s how you can vary the recipe for different diets:

Keto

Replace quinoa with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
Omit chickpeas as they are high in carbs.
Increase the amount of heavy cream and olive oil to up the fat content.

Paleo

Replace quinoa with cauliflower rice or omit entirely.
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Omit chickpeas and add more vegetables or a protein like chicken or beef.
Ensure the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes are without additives or make your own.

Gluten-Free

Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, but always ensure it hasn’t been cross-contaminated.
Ensure the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and any other store-bought ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Whole30

Omit quinoa and chickpeas.
Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Make sure the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes have no added sugars or non-compliant additives.
Add more veggies or compliant protein sources.

Vegetarian

Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.

Vegan

Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.
Omit chickpeas if desired or replace with other beans or lentils.
Add more vegetables for a hearty touch.

Recipe Directions

Begin by heating oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Add minced garlic, diced celery, sliced carrots, and chopped onion to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Sauté the mixture for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
Introduce the aromatic Italian seasoning, along with the richness of tomato sauce and the vibrant tang of diced tomatoes.
To enhance the heartiness, add a touch of protein-rich quinoa and the nutty goodness of chickpeas. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Adjust the seasoning once again with a bit more freshly ground black pepper to elevate the flavors.
Lower the heat to a steady simmer as the mixture reaches a gentle boil, allowing the ingredients to meld over the next 20 to 25 minutes.
Just before the soup is fully cooked, introduce a delightful creamy element by gently pouring in the heavy cream. This adds a luxurious texture to the dish.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

For a spicier kick, infuse with chipotle or red pepper flakes.
Swap quinoa for barley or wild rice for a different texture.
Incorporate butternut squash or sweet potatoes for added sweetness.

Add-Ons

Toss in roasted bell peppers or zucchini slices.
Enhance protein with shredded chicken, tofu, or beef strips.
Stir in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro for a burst of green.
Introduce mushrooms for a meaty, earthy depth.

Toppings

Garnish with grated parmesan or vegan cheese crumbles.
Add a sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions for color and bite.
Drizzle with a touch of truffle oil for luxury.
Top with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Dollop a spoonful of pesto or sour cream for added richness.

Can I Make Creamy Quinoa Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

The Creamy Quinoa Soup can be adapted for both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here’s how you can do it:

Slow Cooker

Sautéing (optional but recommended): In a pan, heat oil and sauté garlic, celery, carrots, and onion until softened. This step can be skipped, but sautéing enhances the flavor.
Transfer to Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed veggies to the slow cooker.
Add Ingredients: Add the quinoa, Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth—season with salt and pepper.
Cook: Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 4-6 hours.
Add Cream & Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach.
Serve: Once the spinach has wilted and the soup is heated through, it’s ready to serve.

Instant Pot

Use the Sauté Function: Turn on the sauté function. Once hot, add oil, followed by garlic, celery, carrots, and onion. Sauté until softened.
Add Ingredients: Add the quinoa, Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, chickpeas, and chicken broth. Ensure you scrape the bottom of the pot to remove any bits stuck to it (to prevent the “burn” warning).
Pressure Cook: Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to manual high pressure for 15 minutes.
Natural Release: Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
Add Cream & Spinach: Turn on the sauté function again, and stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted.
Serve: Taste for seasoning adjustments and serve hot.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can use either store-bought broth or homemade broth for your Creamy Quinoa Soup, each with its own advantages:

Store-Bought Broth

Convenience: This is the biggest advantage of store-bought broth. It’s ready to use and can save you a lot of time, especially when you’re in a hurry.
Consistency: Store-bought broths have a consistent flavor, so if you have a preferred brand, you know what taste to expect.
Variety: Many stores offer a range of broths, from organic to low-sodium to broths infused with herbs or specific flavors.

Homemade Broth:

Flavor Control: When making your own broth, you can adjust the flavors exactly to your liking.
No Additives: Homemade broth typically doesn’t have the additives, artificial flavors, or preservatives that can be found in some store-bought versions.
Economical: Making broth at home can be cost-effective, especially if you’re using leftover bones and vegetable scraps.

How To Serve ?

Serving the Creamy Quinoa Soup in the best manner can enhance the dining experience. Here are some suggestions to consider:

Temperature: Ensure the soup is served hot. If prepared ahead of time, gently reheat on the stove until it reaches the desired temperature.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs such as parsley, basil, or chives can add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can also complement the soup’s creaminess.
Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or fresh baguette on the side to soak up the rich flavors. Garlic bread or herb-infused olive oil for dipping can also be a delightful addition.
Salad Pairing: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the soup’s richness, making for a wholesome meal.
Cheese: Grate some Parmesan, Asiago, or feta cheese on top just before serving for an added layer of flavor.
Serve in Bowls: Using wide, shallow bowls can showcase the soup’s texture and ingredients. Ensure the bowls are warmed slightly to keep the soup hot for longer.

Perfect Side Dishes

Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh baguette or artisanal bread can be perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup. Garlic or herb-infused bread can add an extra layer of flavor.
Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Veggies like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or carrots roasted with garlic, olive oil, and herbs can be a warm and satisfying addition.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, the crispy texture, and melted cheese can be delightful with the soup’s creaminess.
Quiche or Savory Tart: A slice of quiche or a savory tart, such as one with caramelized onions and goat cheese, can be a rich addition to the meal.

Storage & Make Ahead

Refrigeration: Store leftover creamy quinoa soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup’s flavors often meld and improve with time.
Freezing: Quinoa soups can be frozen successfully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Ensure proper cooling before freezing to maintain texture.
Make Ahead: Prepare the soup base, excluding cream or dairy components, in advance. Refrigerate the base for up to 24 hours. Add cream or dairy when reheating to avoid separation and ensure a fresh, velvety texture.
Add-ins Later: For optimal texture, add cooked quinoa and any delicate vegetables or herbs just before serving.
Flavor Development: Allow the soup to rest for a few hours or overnight before serving to let the flavors deepen.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Maximizing the use of leftover Creamy Quinoa Soup can be both fun and resourceful. Here are some inventive ways to repurpose those leftovers:

Grain Bowl Base: Use the soup as a base layer in grain bowls, topped with roasted veggies, protein, and a drizzle of dressing.
Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup on the stovetop to thicken and toss with your favorite pasta.
Casserole Foundation: Mix with cooked chicken, vegetables, and top with breadcrumbs or cheese, then bake.
Stuffed Vegetables: Use as a filling for bell peppers or zucchini boats.
Pie Filling: Pour into a pie crust, top with a second crust or mashed potatoes, and bake.
Sandwich Spread: Blend into a smoother consistency and use as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
Flatbread Topping: Spread on flatbread, add toppings, and bake for a unique pizza variant.
Enchilada Filling: Use as a filling for enchiladas, top with sauce and cheese, then bake.
Quiche Ingredient: Mix with eggs and pour into a pie crust for a quinoa-based quiche.
Risotto Enhancer: Mix with risotto rice for a creamier texture and added flavor.

TIPS

Quinoa Power Boost: Amp up the nutritional content by adding cooked quinoa to your creamy soup. This superfood not only enriches texture but also brings a protein-packed punch.
Turmeric Twist: Infuse anti-inflammatory goodness by incorporating a dash of turmeric into the soup. The warm, earthy notes complement the quinoa beautifully.
Coconut Cream Dream: Swap traditional cream for coconut cream to impart a tropical essence. The result? A lusciously creamy and dairy-free delight.
Herbal Harmony: Elevate the flavor profile with a medley of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and dill. Their aromatic dance enhances the overall taste.
Citrus Surprise: Finish with a squeeze of lemon or lime just before serving to add a refreshing citrusy zing, balancing the richness of the quinoa and cream.