Simple and Flavorful Potato and Leek Soup with Herb Oil Drizzle

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Get ready for a spoonful of pure comfort. This silky potato and leek soup is brimming with rich flavors, highlighted by a simple yet heavenly herb oil drizzle. It’s the kind of dish that can brighten a chilly evening or make an everyday lunch feel special.

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Ingredients

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  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley and basil), plus extra for garnish
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
  • 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Begin by preparing the herb oil drizzle. In a small bowl, stir together 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the chopped herbs. Cover and set it aside so the flavors can meld while you work on the soup.

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In a large pot, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and a pinch of salt, cooking them gently until they are softened but not browned, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent any charring.

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Next, toss in the cubed potatoes and mix them with the softened leeks, allowing them to soak up some of that lovely buttery flavor. Pour in the stock, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Take the pot off the heat and carefully blend the soup until it’s smooth and velvety. An immersion blender works like a charm for this, but a regular blender (in batches) also does the trick. Return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream, if you’re using it, for extra richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Ladle the soup into bowls, then give that reserved herb oil a quick stir and drizzle it right on top. Garnish with extra herbs if you like a pop of color and fresh flair.

In closing, this recipe is perfect for anyone who craves a comforting meal and enjoys a bit of elegance at the table. Feel free to use vegetable stock and skip the cream for a lighter or vegan-friendly version, and experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme if you want a different flavor profile. With a short list of simple ingredients and that finishing flourish of herb oil, this soup is sure to be your go-to dish for cozy nights in or a delightful lunch that truly satisfies.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.