Monday Soup Magic: A Simple, Nutritious Recipe from Lindsay Neilson
There are some days when a simple visit can spark something truly special, and that’s precisely what happened when my dear friend, Lindsay Neilson (@thelindsayreport), graced us with her presence. Guys, I absolutely adore her! Beyond the wonderful company and engaging conversations, Lindsay left us with a culinary gem that has quickly become a cherished staple in our household: her incredible Monday Soup recipe. It’s deceptively basic in its preparation, yet the flavors are nothing short of amazing. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming, soul-nourishing experience that brings everyone to the table, and trust me, even the pickiest eaters—my kids included—were literally devouring it. It’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly extraordinary.
Why “Monday Soup” is Your New Weeknight Hero
The name “Monday Soup” might suggest it’s exclusively for the start of the week, but its versatility and ease make it perfect for any busy evening when you crave something nutritious yet effortless. After a long day, the last thing anyone wants is a complicated recipe with a lengthy ingredient list. This soup cuts through the complexity, offering a dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with goodness. It’s designed to use ingredients you likely already have on hand – a true pantry hero. The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to deliver profound flavor and essential nutrients without demanding hours in the kitchen. It’s a gentle reminder that healthy eating doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be an enjoyable, straightforward part of your routine.
What makes this soup so captivating is its humble nature. Lindsay’s approach to cooking is all about maximizing flavor and nutritional value with minimal fuss, and this recipe perfectly embodies that philosophy. The combination of aromatic vegetables, savory broth, and warming spices creates a symphony of taste that feels both familiar and exciting. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug, comforting after a chilly day or simply rejuvenating when you need a boost. Plus, the fact that my children, who often approach new vegetable dishes with skepticism, asked for seconds (and thirds!) speaks volumes. This soup is a game-changer for families looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet in a way that’s genuinely appealing to everyone.
For those who prefer a visual guide or simply want to catch more of Lindsay’s wonderful energy, you can watch the entire process unfold in the video above. It’s a fantastic way to see just how simple and straightforward this recipe truly is, and you’ll get a glimpse into the joyful spirit that Lindsay brings to everything she does. Watching someone prepare a dish can often demystify the cooking process, making it feel more approachable and inspiring even the most hesitant home cooks.
The Nutritional Powerhouse: Ingredients Spotlight
One of the many reasons to love Lindsay’s Monday Soup is its incredible nutrient profile, thanks to its thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, not just in flavor, but in contributing to your overall well-being. Let’s break down some of the stars:
- Carrots: These vibrant orange root vegetables are a fantastic source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and skin health. Their natural sweetness also adds a lovely depth to the soup.
- Celery: Often overlooked, celery brings a subtle, earthy flavor and a refreshing crunch. It’s low in calories but rich in vitamins K and C, as well as potassium, supporting bone health and hydration.
- Onion & Garlic: The foundational aromatics of almost any good soup. Onions provide a sweet base when sautéed, while garlic adds a pungent, savory kick. Both are known for their immune-boosting properties and contain beneficial compounds like allicin.
- Spinach: A true superfood! Whether fresh or frozen, spinach wilts quickly into the soup, adding a wealth of vitamins K, A, and C, along with folate and iron. It’s excellent for bone health, blood clotting, and energy levels.
- Beans: Your favorite beans (canned for convenience) are a powerhouse of plant-based protein, fiber, and various minerals. They add substance and a creamy texture to the soup, making it incredibly filling and satisfying. Fiber is essential for digestive health and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Chicken Stock or Bone Broth: The liquid base of this soup isn’t just for consistency; it’s a source of collagen, amino acids, and minerals, especially if you opt for bone broth. Bone broth is celebrated for its gut-healing properties and its ability to support joint health. It truly elevates the soup’s nutritional value and flavor.
- Curry Powder & Cumin: These spices aren’t just for taste; they offer significant health benefits. Curry powder is often a blend of turmeric, coriander, cumin, and fenugreek, among others, all known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cumin aids digestion and is a good source of iron.
The beauty of this combination is that it’s not only incredibly healthy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the quantities of vegetables to your liking, making it a perfect clean-out-the-fridge meal. This soup truly embodies balanced nutrition in a delicious, approachable format.
Monday Soup: Lindsay’s Essential Recipe
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Ingredients
- 2-4 T avocado oil or ghee
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3-5 large carrots peeled and diced
- 4 ribs of celery chopped
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp salt
- pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken stock or bone broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 cans your favorite beans (e.g., cannellini, kidney, or black beans), rinsed and drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes undrained
- a few big handfuls of spinach frozen or fresh
Instructions
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil or ghee, allowing it to shimmer slightly. Then, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced celery, and diced carrots. Sauté these vegetables, stirring often, for about 8-10 minutes, or until they soften and become fork-tender. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your soup, as caramelizing the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness.
- Once the vegetables are tender, add the cumin, curry powder, and salt to the pot. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices. Allow the spices to toast gently for about one minute, stirring constantly. This step helps to bloom the spices, releasing their full aroma and deepening the overall flavor profile of the soup. Be careful not to burn them.
- Pour in the chicken stock or bone broth, water, your chosen beans (rinsed and drained), and the can of undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the vegetables are perfectly cooked.
- Finally, add a few generous handfuls of fresh or frozen spinach to the pot. Stir it gently into the hot soup. As soon as the spinach begins to wilt and turn a vibrant green (this will happen very quickly, usually within 1-2 minutes), turn off the heat. Overcooking spinach can diminish its vibrant color and texture.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve your delicious Monday Soup immediately while it’s warm and comforting. For any leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to a week, making it an excellent option for meal prepping throughout your busy week.
Notes
Tips for Customization and Making it Your Own
While Lindsay’s Monday Soup recipe is perfect as is, it also serves as a fantastic canvas for customization. Don’t be afraid to experiment and tailor it to your personal preferences or what you have available in your kitchen:
- Add Protein: For an even heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken (shredded rotisserie chicken works wonderfully), ground turkey, or even cooked lentils for an extra plant-based protein boost.
- Vary the Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, or sweet potatoes. Just ensure they are cut into bite-sized pieces and cooked until tender. Cauliflower florets or broccoli florets are also great additions.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a welcome kick. For a smoky flavor, a touch of smoked paprika would be excellent.
- Herbaceous Freshness: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving for a burst of vibrant flavor and color. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can also brighten all the flavors.
- Creamy Texture: For a richer, creamier soup, you could swirl in a dollop of full-fat coconut milk (for a dairy-free option) or a splash of heavy cream at the very end.
- Garnish Galore: Top your bowl with crunchy croutons, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of pesto, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and flavor. Fresh crusty bread for dipping is always a winner!
This soup’s adaptability is one of its greatest strengths, allowing you to create a slightly different experience each time you make it while still enjoying the core comfort and nutrition that Lindsay’s original recipe provides. It’s a truly forgiving recipe that encourages creativity in the kitchen.
The Joy of Simple, Wholesome Eating
In a world often inundated with complex recipes and diet trends, Lindsay’s Monday Soup stands out as a beacon of simplicity and wholesome goodness. It reminds us that nourishing our bodies doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Instead, it can be a joyful act, incorporating readily available ingredients into a dish that truly satisfies both hunger and soul. The experience of sharing this recipe with my own family, and seeing their enthusiastic response, has reinforced my belief in the power of home-cooked meals.
This soup is more than just a collection of ingredients; it’s an invitation to slow down, enjoy the process of cooking, and savor a meal that’s made with care. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick and easy, yet it feels special enough to serve on a weekend. The fact that it reheats beautifully and can be enjoyed for days after makes it an ideal candidate for meal prepping, ensuring you have healthy, delicious options readily available throughout the week.
So, the next time you’re wondering what to cook, especially on a bustling Monday, I wholeheartedly encourage you to give Lindsay’s Monday Soup a try. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire, bringing warmth, flavor, and effortless nutrition to your table. You’ll be amazed at how such a simple combination of ingredients can yield such an incredibly flavorful and satisfying result. Enjoy the magic!