This artichoke soup is hearty and heavenly in taste and texture. It is simple to make and full of flavor. Serve it with a main dish, or make it your light and healthy meal.
2tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oilmore for serving
1white onionchopped
1clovegarlicminced
1teaspoondried thyme
1teaspoondried rosemary
1shallotminced
1Yukon gold potatomedium-size, peeled and chopped
18-ounce packagefrozen artichoke heartsthawed
3cupsvegetable or chicken stock
1teaspoonsaltor to taste
½teaspoonfreshly ground black pepperor to taste
¼cupparsley for garnish
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large, heavy pot over medium heat. Add the onion, shallot, and garlic, stirring occasionally until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Cook the Potatoes: Add the chopped potatoes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
Simmer the Soup: Add the artichokes, 2 cups of stock (reserve 1 cup), thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender.
Blend to Your Preference: Using an immersion blender (or working in batches with a stand blender*), puree the soup until smooth, adding the remaining stock gradually to reach your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, blend lightly, leaving small bits of artichoke intact. For a silkier finish, blend thoroughly until completely smooth.
Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs and serve with toasted bread for dipping.
Notes
* if using a blender, make sure the soup cools for at least 15 minutes before blending.