Spinach and Walnut Soup

This healthy green soup with the addition of walnuts is a perfect starter for a three course meal.

Ingredients serve 4 - 6

1 tbls oil or butter

1 chopped brown onion (150g)

3 chopped celery stalks (350g)

2 peeled and chopped potatoes (300g)

1 litre vegetable or chicken stock

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

½ tsp salt

½ tsp mixed dried herbs

¼ tsp white pepper

1 bunch chopped spinach or silver beet stalks removed (250g)

½ cup finely chopped walnuts

Method

Place oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and cook onion, celery and potatoes for 3 minutes. Add stock, nutmeg, salt, herbs and pepper, bring to the boil and lower the heat. Simmer covered for approx. 15 minutes before adding the chopped spinach. Cook for a further 3 – 5 minutes and remove from the heat. Place in a blender and process until smooth or use a stick blender in the saucepan. Reheat the soup and pour into warm bowls. Add a dollop of yogurt or cream and the walnuts. Serve with crusty bread.

Note: For extra flavor add 1 tsp minced garlic.