Quinoa, the ancient superfood packed with protein and essential nutrients, is an ideal ingredient for a wholesome and satisfying soup. Below is the best quinoa soup recipe that will help you make a delicious and healthy quinoa soup right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion (chopped)

– 2 cloves garlic (minced)

– 1 large carrot (diced)

– 2 celery stalks (diced)

– 6 cups vegetable broth

– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)

– 1 bay leaf

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 can white beans (15 oz, rinsed and drained)

– 2 cups chopped kale or spinach

– Freshly squeezed lemon juice from one lemon

– Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove its natural coating (saponin), which can cause a bitter taste.

2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook for about

5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

3. Add the rinsed quinoa to the pot and stir to combine with the vegetables. Cook for another minute.

4. Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes along with their juices, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

5. Cook the soup for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked through.

6. Stir in the white beans and chopped kale or spinach. Let them cook until warmed through and the greens are wilted – about 3 to 5 minutes.

7. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, taste the soup, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

8. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Whether enjoyed on its own or with crusty bread on the side, this delicious quinoa soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Its wholesome ingredients and rich flavors make it a satisfying meal, perfect for any season. So gather around with family and friends to savor this nutritious and delightful dish.