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Creamy Fennel and Greens Soup

This creamy fennel and greens soup is a vibrant, vitamin-rich dish that celebrates the delicate aniseed notes of fresh fennel. By simmering dark leafy greens like beet tops with sweet onions before finishing with a splash of double cream, you create a silky texture and a deeply comforting flavour profile. The addition of fresh lemon juice at the end provides a bright acidity that perfectly balances the earthy greens.

As a versatile vegetarian starter or a nutritious light lunch, this homemade soup fits easily into a healthy weekly meal plan. It is particularly practical for busy households as the base can be prepared up to two days in advance and chilled. Serve it piping hot with crusty sourdough bread or chilled during the summer months for a refreshing alternative.

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Ingredients for Creamy Fennel and Greens Soup

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • 1 fennel bulb, trimmed and chopped

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 450g mixed dark leafy greens such as collard and beet, coarse stems and centre ribs discarded and leaves chopped

  • 6 cups water

  • 3 cups baby spinach (60g)

  • 1/2 cup double cream

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • Garnish: fennel fronds or chopped dill

How to make Creamy Fennel and Greens Soup

Heat oil and butter in a 6-quart heavy pot over medium heat until foam subsides. Add fennel, onion, 3/4 teaspoons salt, and 1/8 teaspoons pepper and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, 7 to 8 minutes.

Add leafy greens (but not spinach) and water to pot and simmer, covered, until greens are tender, about 30 minutes. Stir in spinach and cook, uncovered, just until wilted, about 1 minute.

Purée soup in batches in a blender (use caution when blending hot liquids) until smooth, then return to pot. Stir in cream and lemon juice and reheat over low heat. Season with salt.

Soup can be made 2 days ahead and chilled (covered once cool). Reheat or serve cold.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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