Name: Delicious Super-Green Risotto Soup Ready in 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 stalks Celery (Provides a fresh, crisp flavor base.); 1 medium Leek (Adds a sweet and mild onion flavor; wash thoroughly.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Essential for sautéing vegetables.); 1 medium Lemon (Use fresh for the best zest and juice.); 1 cube Vegetable Stock (Serves as a flavor enhancer.); 1 cup Risotto Rice (Arborio is preferred.); ½ cup Blanched Hazelnuts (Delivers a nutty crunch.); 2 cups Baby Spinach (A nutrient-packed green.); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Essential for umami flavor and creaminess.); 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (For drizzling before serving.)

As the crisp air settles in, I find myself craving something that not only warms the belly but also soothes the soul. Enter my Super-Green Risotto Soup with Crispy Leeks & Toasted Hazelnuts—your new go-to comfort dish! This vibrant, silky soup packs in all the nutrients of fresh greens while remaining remarkably easy to whip up in just 30 minutes. No endless stirring is required; instead, this recipe lets you relish that rich risotto texture without the fuss. Not only is it a delightful way to sneak in your daily servings of veggies, but it also offers the satisfying crunch of hazelnuts paired with perfectly crispy leeks. So, are you ready to indulge in a bowl of cozy goodness that transforms humble ingredients into something extraordinary? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe!

Why is this soup a must-try?

Comforting, Creamy Goodness: This Super-Green Risotto Soup envelops you in warmth with its decadent, silky texture, making it perfect for chilly days.
Nutrient-Packed: With fresh greens and hearty ingredients, each spoonful is a delicious way to boost your vegetable intake.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a wholesome meal. No endless stirring here!
Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite grains or veggies, easily personalizing this dish to suit your taste. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, making it a satisfying complete meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The combination of crispy leeks and nutty hazelnuts adds a delightful crunch, perfectly contrasting the creamy soup base that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Super-Green Risotto Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Celery – Provides a fresh, crisp flavor base; substitute with fennel for a unique twist.
Leek – Adds a sweet and mild onion flavor; be sure to wash thoroughly to remove any grit.
Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing vegetables; can be replaced with butter for a richer taste.
Lemon – Brightens the flavors; use fresh for the best zest and juice.
Vegetable Stock Cube – Serves as a flavor enhancer; homemade stock boosts robustness.
Risotto Rice – The key for that creamy texture; Arborio is preferred, but Carnaroli works too.
Blanched Hazelnuts – Delivers a nutty crunch; swap with toasted pine nuts or walnuts if desired.
Baby Spinach – A nutrient-packed green; kale can be substituted for variety.
Parmesan Cheese (or vegetarian hard cheese) – Essential for umami flavor and creaminess; nutritional yeast is a great vegan option.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil – For drizzling before serving; enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Super-green risotto soup

Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
Begin by finely chopping the celery and slicing the leek into thin rounds, ensuring to wash the leek thoroughly to remove any grit. Set these prepared vegetables aside as they will form the aromatic base for your Super-green risotto soup.

Step 2: Sauté
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped celery and sliced leek, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This creates a lovely flavor foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Add Stock
Once the vegetables are softened, pour in 4 cups of vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. Watch for small bubbles forming as it heats, indicating it’s ready for the next step, which will enrich the soup’s depth.

Step 4: Incorporate Rice
Stir in 1 cup of risotto rice, allowing it to absorb the hot stock while cooking; this should take approximately 5 minutes. The rice should begin to swell and become slightly translucent, indicating it’s soaking up all that delicious broth.

Step 5: Add Spinach
Add 2 cups of baby spinach to the pot, stirring until it wilts down completely, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The vibrant green of the spinach will meld beautifully with the soup, infusing it with nutrients and enhancing the color of your Super-green risotto soup.

Step 6: Blend
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth, ensuring a consistent silky texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the mixture in batches to a standard blender, being cautious of the hot liquid. This creates the creamy consistency characteristic of a great risotto soup.

Step 7: Finish
Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat and stir in the juice of half a lemon and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld and the cheese melt completely for that luscious risotto finish.

Step 8: Prepare Toppings
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast ½ cup of blanched hazelnuts until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. If desired, prepare crispy leeks by frying in a little olive oil until golden. These toppings will elevate the soup’s texture and flavor.

Step 9: Serve
Ladle the warm Super-green risotto soup into bowls and generously top with toasted hazelnuts and crispy leeks. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for added richness, and enjoy each comforting spoonful of this vibrant dish that warms both heart and soul.

What to Serve with Super-Green Risotto Soup

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that create a cozy and well-rounded meal.

Crusty Bread: This rustic companion is perfect for dipping, adding a satisfying chew that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s creamy texture.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint, helping to balance the richness of the risotto soup.
Grilled Vegetable Platter: The smoky flavors of charred vegetables bring an exciting depth, enhancing the vibrant green notes of the soup while adding even more nutrients.
Garlic Knots: Fluffy, herb-infused garlic knots provide a comforting, aromatic touch that makes every bite feel indulgent. Tear it apart, dip, and enjoy!
Crispy Chickpeas: These crunchy, spiced delights add a lovely contrast to the smooth soup, enriching each spoonful with an extra layer of flavor.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio creates a delightful pairing, balancing the soup’s earthiness with bright acidity.
Herbed Quinoa: Quinoa, dressed in fresh herbs and lemon, makes for a nutrient-dense side that complements the soup without overpowering it—ideal for a wholesome meal.

Expert Tips for Super-Green Risotto Soup

Leek Safety: Always rinse leeks meticulously to eliminate any lingering sand or grit. A clean leek promotes the best flavor.
Creamy Texture: For the ultimate richness, let your soup simmer a bit longer after adding the risotto rice, allowing it to achieve that desired creaminess.
Nutty Hazelnuts: Be cautious while toasting hazelnuts; their delicate nature means they can burn quickly if not monitored closely.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture, but if you’re using frozen, make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess water in your soup.
Versatile Grains: Feel free to swap in quinoa or barley instead of risotto rice. This variation not only adds texture but can also boost your Super-green risotto soup’s nutritional profile!

Make Ahead Options

These Super-Green Risotto Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the celery and leek, and even toast the hazelnuts up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh and prevent browning. The soup base can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the soup on the stove, stir in a squeeze of lemon juice and grated Parmesan, and top with the crispy leeks you’ve prepared. This pre-planning allows you to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort at dinner time!

How to Store and Freeze Super-Green Risotto Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the super-green risotto soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock to restore creaminess if needed.

Serving Tips: For best results, avoid freezing toppings like hazelnuts and crispy leeks separately; add them just before serving for a fresh crunch.

Super-Green Risotto Soup Variations

Want to make this Super-Green Risotto Soup uniquely yours? Let your creativity shine with these tasty twists and swaps!

Grain-Free: Swap risotto rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that still delivers a creamy texture.
Grated cauliflower blends beautifully, adding a subtle flavor without the carbs. You’ll enjoy a comforting bowl that feels indulgent yet light!
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance the soup’s flavor profile.
Adding herbs brings freshness and a beautiful aroma, elevating this dish to a whole new level. Just sprinkle in your favorites when blending for that extra zing!
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken for a heartier soup.
This twist not only makes it more filling, but it also adds a wonderful savory element to each spoonful. Perfect if you’re looking to fuel up after a long day!
Nut-Free: Replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds or pepitas for a nut-free crunch.
These alternatives provide a satisfying texture while keeping the dish safe for those with nut allergies. Toast until golden for an extra pop of flavor!
Spicy Kick: Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
This is perfect for those who enjoy some heat; it adds depth to the soup without overwhelming its comforting essence. Adjust to your taste for a warming finish!
Creamy Vegan: Swap in coconut milk instead of Parmesan for a rich, creamy vegan option.
The subtle sweetness of coconut beautifully complements the greens, making for a unique and indulgent flavor. Your guests will never guess it’s dairy-free!
Added Vegetables: Toss in zucchini or asparagus for extra veggies and flavor diversity.
These additions enhance the soup’s color and nutrient density, making each bowl even more vibrant. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any odds and ends in your fridge!
Go Green: Swap spinach for Swiss chard or even broccoli for a unique twist.
This not only changes the color but also introduces new textures and flavors into the mix. Each variation brings something special to your hearty soup!

For more delightful vegetable-forward recipes, don’t forget to check out my Black Bean Soup and other soups that celebrate numbers of nature’s finest greens! These variations ensure you can enjoy endless bowls of comfort, all with a personal touch. Enjoy customizing your dish!

Super-Green Risotto Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the freshest vegetables for my soup?
Absolutely! When choosing your vegetables, look for celery that is crisp and firm, with no dark spots or wilting. For leeks, opt for ones that are bright green and have a firm, white bulb. Fresh lemons should feel heavy for their size and have a vibrant yellow color. Remember, the fresher the ingredients, the better your Super-Green Risotto Soup will taste!

What’s the best way to store leftovers of the Super-Green Risotto Soup?
For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container once the soup is completely cooled. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. To ensure it maintains its flavor, reheat it gently on the stove and add a splash of vegetable stock if it seems too thick.

Can I freeze Super-Green Risotto Soup? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze your soup, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion, and seal them tightly. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove, adding a bit of vegetable stock to help regain the creamy texture.

What should I do if my risotto soup is too thick?
No worries! If your soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add some vegetable stock or water gradually while stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. If you’re looking for added creaminess, a splash of milk or a dollop of cream can also do the trick.

Is Super-Green Risotto Soup suitable for those with nut allergies?
If anyone has nut allergies, definitely skip the hazelnuts in the topping, as they can cause a reaction. Instead, consider using toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nutty risk. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for store-bought items!

How can I adapt this recipe for a vegan diet?
Very easily! To make the Super-Green Risotto Soup vegan, simply replace the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that’s entirely plant-based. Also, ensure that your vegetable stock is vegan-friendly, and you can keep the soup just as delicious and nutrient-packed!