Name: Kale Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491879H44M28S
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 4 cups chopped kale (stems removed); 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

I love making kale soup when I want something nourishing, simple, and comforting. It’s light yet filling, packed with vegetables, and perfect for warming up on cooler days. I enjoy how the flavors come together gently while the kale becomes tender and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s wholesome and easy to make with everyday ingredients. I don’t need much prep, and it comes together in one pot. I also enjoy how versatile it is, since I can keep it simple or add extra ingredients depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
onion
garlic
carrots
celery
potatoes
kale
vegetable or chicken broth
salt
black pepper
red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I add the onion, carrots, and celery, then cook until softened. I stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

I add the potatoes and pour in the broth, bringing everything to a gentle boil. I reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. I then stir in the chopped kale and let the soup cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the kale is wilted and tender.

I season the soup with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if I want a little heat. I serve it hot once the flavors have come together.

Servings and timing

I usually get about 4 to 6 servings from this soup.
Preparation time: about 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 to 30 minutes
Total time: approximately 40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add white beans or chickpeas to make the soup more filling. I like adding a splash of lemon juice at the end for brightness. For extra flavor, I occasionally stir in grated Parmesan or add cooked sausage.

storage/reheating

I store leftover kale soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if it thickens.

FAQs

Can I use frozen kale?

I can use frozen kale and add it directly to the soup without thawing.

Does kale get bitter in soup?

I find that kale softens and becomes mild as it cooks, especially when simmered properly.

Can I make this soup vegan?

I make it vegan by using vegetable broth and skipping any dairy additions.

What type of kale works best?

I usually use curly kale, but lacinato kale works just as well.

Can I freeze kale soup?

I freeze it after cooling completely and store it for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

I keep kale soup in my regular meal rotation because it’s healthy, comforting, and easy to customize. I love how it comes together with simple ingredients and always leaves me feeling warm, satisfied, and nourished.