Skinny Portuguese Kale and Potato Soup Caldo Verde

Savor the comforting flavors of Skinny Portuguese Kale and Potato Soup, a lighter take on the classic Caldo Verde. This hearty yet wholesome recipe combines tender russet potatoes, nutrient-packed kale, and aromatic garlic and onions, all simmered in a flavorful low-sodium broth. The option to include smoked turkey sausage adds a protein-packed twist to this traditional Portuguese dish, while a touch of red pepper flakes delivers just the right amount of heat. Partially pureeing the soup creates a luxuriously creamy texture without any added dairy, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a healthy, gluten-free, and satisfying meal. Ready in just under an hour, this one-pot soup is ideal for cozy nights and can easily be adjusted to suit your desired thickness. Whether served as a starter or the main event, this vibrant, nutrient-rich soup is sure to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 73/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:35 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium (diced) yellow onion
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 4 medium (peeled and diced) russet potatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth, low sodium
• 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves thinly sliced
• 6 ounces (sliced) smoked turkey sausage (optional, for added protein)
• 1 teaspoon, or to taste salt
• 0.5 teaspoon, or to taste black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 2 cups (if needed to adjust consistency) water

Directions

Step 1

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced potatoes and pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.

Step 5

Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 6

Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup in the pot to create a creamy consistency while leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, puree, and then return to the pot.

Step 7

Stir in the sliced kale and smoked turkey sausage (if using) and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the kale is tender.

Step 8

Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 9

If the soup is too thick, add 1-2 cups of water to reach your desired consistency and heat through.

Step 10

Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or additional red pepper flakes, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3046.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1412.5

Total Fat 46.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 8.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 100.1mg	0%
Sodium 4558.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 186.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.7g	0%
Total Sugars 15.5g
Protein 62.8g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 443.0mg	0%
Iron 13.3mg	0%
Potassium 5327.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 29.3%

Protein: 17.8%

Carbs: 52.9%