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Lemony Tuscan Artichoke Soup

Lemony Tuscan Artichoke Soup

Lemony Tuscan Artichoke Soup is a bright and comforting soup that balances the fresh zest of lemon with the creamy, earthy richness of artichokes. Perfect for any season, this soup offers a velvety texture and bold yet soothing flavors, making it an irresistible choice for a light lunch or cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh or canned artichokes (about 2 cups, chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme or parsley, chopped

Optional Variations

  • Spinach or kale (1 cup, chopped)
  • Red pepper flakes (a pinch)
  • Grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese for garnish
  • Cooked white beans or shredded chicken (1/2 cup) for added protein

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking gently until translucent and fragrant, creating the flavor base for the soup.
  2. Add Artichokes and Broth: Stir in the artichokes and cook briefly, then pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and allow the flavors to meld while the artichokes soften.
  3. Blend for Creaminess: Once the vegetables are tender, use an immersion blender or transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Puree until smooth and creamy, leaving some texture for interest.
  4. Brighten with Lemon: Stir in fresh lemon juice and zest to awaken the soup’s flavor. Then add the heavy cream or coconut milk to create a luxurious mouthfeel.
  5. Final Seasoning and Herbs: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, and fold in the chopped fresh thyme or parsley for fresh herbal notes that complete the recipe.

Notes

  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor and aroma.
  • Do not overblend; leaving some chunks adds texture and character.
  • Adjust the amount of cream to achieve your preferred soup thickness.
  • Simmer gently to deepen flavors without overcooking the artichokes.
  • Season in layers, tasting and adjusting throughout cooking for balanced flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: artichoke soup, lemon soup, Tuscan soup, creamy soup, gluten free soup, vegetarian soup, vegan option