Herbed Dandelion Green Soup

Name: Herbed Dandelion Green Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes

I stumbled upon this Herbed Dandelion Green Soup on a beautiful spring day, ready to experiment with the wild greens sprouting in my garden. The slight bitterness of the dandelion greens, balanced by fresh herbs and a hint of lemon, creates a surprisingly comforting dish. This recipe showcases the beauty of foraged ingredients and proves that delicious flavors can come from unexpected places. It’s easy to prepare, and I love how it brings light, vibrant tastes to the table while still being health-conscious.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-01T18:10:28.269Z

When I first made this soup, I was skeptical about using dandelion greens. I thought their bitterness might overpower the dish. To my surprise, the combination of sautéed onion and garlic with a splash of cream rounded out the flavors beautifully. From then on, I was hooked!

One essential tip I learned while making this Herbed Dandelion Green Soup is to thoroughly wash the greens to remove any dirt. This extra step ensures that each spoonful is clean and fresh. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the herbs; fresh thyme or parsley adds a lovely aroma.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Earthy tones from dandelion greens complemented by fresh herbs
Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
A delicious way to embrace foraged ingredients and seasonal cooking

The Role of Dandelion Greens

Dandelion greens are the star of this soup, offering unique earthy flavors that can alternate between mild sweetness and subtle bitterness. This contrast is crucial, balancing the creamy richness of the heavy cream. Make sure to select young, tender leaves for a more pleasant taste since older greens can be overly bitter and tough. A quick wash and chop will prepare them for cooking, allowing their vibrant green color to shine during the sauté step.

Besides their flavor contribution, dandelion greens pack a nutritional punch. They're rich in vitamins A, C, K, and several minerals like calcium and iron. This makes the soup not only a delicious choice but also a health-conscious one. If you're unable to find dandelion greens, you can substitute them with other bitter greens like kale or Swiss chard, keeping in mind the flavor balance may shift slightly.

Mastering Creamy Consistency

Achieving the perfect creamy texture is essential in this Herbed Dandelion Green Soup. When blending, using an immersion blender is ideal, as it allows you to control consistency without transferring hot soup into a traditional blender. If the soup is too thick after blending, simply add more vegetable broth or cream incrementally until you reach your desired thickness. Aim for a silky, glossy appearance without any lumps or chunks, which gives it a refined finish.

If you prefer a lighter option, consider using a plant-based cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream, which will still provide a rich mouthfeel while catering to vegan or dairy-free diets. Just keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor balance slightly, so adjust seasoning as needed.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Herbed Dandelion Green Soup

Main Ingredients

4 cups dandelion greens, washed and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon

Herbs

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Instructions

Steps to Make Herbed Dandelion Green Soup

Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Dandelion Greens

Add the chopped dandelion greens to the pot and stir until they begin to wilt, about 3-4 minutes.

Pour in Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend less.

Add Cream and Season

Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Let it warm through for another 5 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy the soup warm!

Enjoy your delicious Herbed Dandelion Green Soup!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy texture without the dairy.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Herbed Dandelion Green Soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To easily reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring often to maintain the soup's creamy consistency. Be cautious of bringing it to a rapid boil, as this can separate the cream a bit. For a quicker option, you can reheat individual servings in the microwave, ensuring to cover them to preserve moisture.

If you want to make the soup ahead of time, consider preparing the base—with sautéed onions, garlic, and dandelion greens—and storing it without the cream. You can add the cream and seasonings just before serving for a fresher flavor profile. This approach also allows you to freeze portions if desired, keeping the soup good for up to three months without compromising texture.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this soup, I recommend topping it with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted seeds for added texture and flavor. A dollop of crème fraîche can also enhance the creamy aspect while contributing a tangy touch that pairs beautifully with the earthiness of the greens. Fresh crusty bread also makes a great accompaniment, perfect for dipping and enjoying with each spoonful.

For a more upscale presentation, consider garnishing each bowl with edible flowers or microgreens, which not only look beautiful but also add an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. Pair the soup with a light salad featuring citrus vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal that highlights the freshness of spring.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other greens in this recipe?

Yes, other leafy greens like spinach or kale can be substituted if dandelion greens are not available.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.