Creamy Quinoa Soup
This comforting, Creamy Quinoa Soup is made even better with fresh, local ingredients like ground pork, seasonal vegetables, and vibrant spinach. Simmered in rich bone broth and Italian herbs, it’s a perfect balance of hearty and healthy. Chickpeas and quinoa add a protein-packed boost, while whole milk gives the soup a creamy finish. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan for a satisfying, locally inspired meal that highlights the best of our region's flavors. Perfect for cozy nights and packed with nutrient-rich ingredients!Ingredients with an asterisk (*) are available seasonally right here in North Iowa! Click on select ingredients to find them nearby or stop by your local farmer’s market.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- ½ lb ground pork* or sausage
- ¼ onion* diced
- 1-2 carrots* peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery* diced
- 2 cloves garlic* minced
- 2 cups broth* bone broth preferred
- 7 oz chickpeas drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup quinoa +2 tbsp
- 7 oz tomatoes* diced
- 4 oz tomato sauce
- Italian seasoning*
- 2 cups spinach* fresh
- ¼ cup milk whole
- salt + pepper to taste
- parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- In a large stockpot over medium, add sausage or pork and brown until fully cooked. Set aside.
- In the same pot, add avocado oil, onion, celery, carrots, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and sauté for about five minutes.
- Add the bone broth, chickpeas, quinoa, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning to the pot and stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer, and allow to cook for about 20 minutes. Try to keep the pot partially covered while cooking.
- When ready to serve, add back sausage, spinach. and whole milk. Stir well and allow to warm for about 2-3 minutes.
- Top with Parmesan cheese as desired and enjoy!
Notes
About the Author
Jenn Pope, MS, RDN, LD, is the founder of Roots Nutrition Counseling, where she offers a fresh approach to nutrition grounded in evidence-based research and personalized support. At Roots, Jenn is dedicated to helping people embrace balanced, flavorful, and nutrient-dense foods through realistic, achievable goals. With services ranging from one-on-one nutrition counseling to cooking demonstrations and farmers market initiatives, Jenn and her team empower clients to bring nutritious eating into everyday life. Located in Mason City, IA, Roots Nutrition Counseling is committed to making wellness accessible and enjoyable for all.
Nutrition
Calories: 463kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 23gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 57mgSodium: 919mgPotassium: 1021mgFiber: 9gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 6439IUVitamin C: 22mgCalcium: 124mgIron: 4mg
