Creamy Leek and Swiss Chard Soup with Parmesan
As the weather turns crisp and cool, indulge in this comforting and nourishing Creamy Leek and Swiss Chard Soup, known in Italy as Zuppa Di Porri E Bietole. This delightful dish features tender leeks and vibrant Swiss chard, simmered together in a rich broth with creamy arborio rice that adds a touch of heartiness. Perfect for a cozy meal or as an elegant starter, this soup highlights the beauty of seasonal vegetables that you can easily grow in your garden. Enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor that brings the tastes of Italy right to your table!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Unsalted butter
2 (tablespoons)
Olive oil
1 (tablespoon)
Leeks
2 (white and light green parts, cut into 1/2-inch slices)
Swiss chard
8 (ounces, cut into 1-inch pieces)
Stock (vegetable or chicken)
6 (cups)
Arborio rice
1/2 (cup)
Salt
to taste
Pepper
to taste
Parmesan cheese
1/4 (cup, grated)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil over low heat.
2
Add the sliced leeks to the pan and cook slowly until they become tender and golden brown, about 10 minutes.
3
Incorporate the chopped Swiss chard into the pan, mixing well, and then pour in the stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4
Allow the Swiss chard to wilt into the broth, which should take about 10 minutes.
5
Once the chard is wilted, stir in the arborio rice, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
6
Cover the pan and continue cooking over low heat for approximately 20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the flavors.
7
Remove from heat, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir until well combined.
8
Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Italian name for this Creamy Leek and Swiss Chard Soup?
This soup is known in Italy as Zuppa Di Porri E Bietole.
What are the primary vegetables used in this recipe?
The main vegetables are leeks and Swiss chard.
How much butter is required for the soup?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
What type of stock should I use?
You can use 6 cups of either vegetable or chicken stock.
Which specific variety of rice is used to add heartiness?
1/2 cup of Arborio rice is used in this recipe.
How long should the leeks be cooked?
The sliced leeks should be cooked slowly for about 10 minutes until they are tender and golden brown.
Which parts of the leeks are used in the soup?
Only the white and light green parts of the leeks should be used, cut into 1/2-inch slices.
What is the weight of the Swiss chard needed?
You will need 8 ounces of Swiss chard.
How should the Swiss chard be prepared?
The Swiss chard should be cut into 1-inch pieces.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as long as vegetable stock is used.
How much Parmesan cheese is included in the recipe?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
What size should the Swiss chard pieces be?
The chard should be cut into 1-inch pieces.
How long does it take for the Arborio rice to cook in the soup?
The rice takes approximately 20 minutes to cook until it has fully absorbed the flavors.
What heat setting should be used to cook the leeks?
The leeks should be cooked over low heat.
Should the pan be covered while the rice is cooking?
Yes, you should cover the pan while the rice cooks over low heat.
Can I add extra cheese when serving?
Yes, you can garnish the soup with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
How much stock is required in total?
The recipe requires 6 cups of stock.
What type of oil is used alongside the butter?
1 tablespoon of olive oil is used to cook the leeks.
When is the best time of year to make this soup?
It is ideal for seasonal cooking when the weather turns crisp and cool.
What is the quantity of Arborio rice?
1/2 cup of Arborio rice.
How is the soup seasoned?
The soup is seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.
When is the Parmesan cheese added?
The Parmesan is added after the pan is removed from the heat.
How long does it take for the Swiss chard to wilt in the broth?
It takes about 10 minutes for the Swiss chard to wilt.
What is the final step before serving?
The final step is to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it is well combined.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe specifies unsalted butter, but salted can be used if you adjust the additional salt accordingly.
What gives the soup its creamy texture?
The creaminess comes from the Arborio rice and the addition of Parmesan cheese.
Is this soup considered a quick meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal, taking roughly 40-50 minutes total.
How should the leeks look before adding the chard?
The leeks should be tender and have a golden brown color.
Should the soup be served hot or cold?
The soup should be served hot.
What type of cuisine is this recipe?
This is an Italian-style soup recipe.