Creamy bean soup with spinach and smoked meat

Creamy green bean soup with spinach and smoked meat – A Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2

Discover a recipe that combines the fresh flavor of vegetables with the unmistakable aroma of smoked meat, transforming an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. The creamy green bean soup with spinach and smoked meat is not only nutritious and full of vitamins but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for a quick dinner or a comforting lunch. Let’s embark together on a journey of flavors!

Ingredients

- 200 g green beans, fresh or frozen
- 3 tablespoons spinach puree (preferably fresh, but frozen can be used)
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 small head of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- ½ hot pepper, seeded
- 150 g smoked meat (preferably bacon or sausage)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried spice mix (marjoram, thyme, bay leaf, pepper, oregano, basil)
- 1 teaspoon salt-free dehydrated vegetables
- Olive oil, for cooking
- A few slices of olives (optional)
- 3-4 cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 100 g butter, at room temperature

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the green beans well, cutting off the ends. If using frozen beans, simply allow them to thaw. Finely chop the red onion, and you can mince the garlic. Wash, drain, and finely chop the parsley. If you have cherry tomatoes, cut them into quarters.

Step 2: Cooking the smoked meat
In a pot, add a splash of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the smoked meat cut into pieces and sauté it lightly until it becomes crispy. This step will release the intense flavors of the smoked meat, adding extra taste to the soup. Once browned, remove the smoked meat from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the remaining oil in the pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the green beans, spinach puree, cherry tomatoes, and finely chopped hot pepper. Mix well and season with the dried spice mix and dehydrated vegetables.

Step 4: Boiling
Add 300 ml of water to the pot, stir, and let everything simmer, covered, for about 15 minutes. You will notice how the vegetables soften and the flavors combine deliciously. Don’t forget to check the consistency occasionally and adjust the salt to taste.

Step 5: Preparing the parsley paste
Meanwhile, take a blender and add the chopped parsley, garlic, a splash of olive oil, and a few pieces of smoked meat. Blend everything until you achieve a smooth paste. Stop half of this paste and mix the rest with the softened butter at room temperature. This will add a creamy and flavorful note to the soup.

Step 6: Soup cream
Once the vegetables have boiled and softened, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the vegetables until you obtain a smooth cream. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little water to reach the desired consistency.

Step 7: Serving
To serve the soup, pour the vegetable cream into bowls. On top, add the crispy smoked meat you saved, a few slices of olives, and optionally sprinkle some fresh parsley for a colorful touch. Serve the soup hot, alongside slices of toasted bread spread with the aromatic butter prepared earlier.

Practical Tips
- For a more intense flavor: You can add a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- Variations: Substitute the smoked meat with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. You can also experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini.
- The bread: Choose a rustic or grain bread to complement the soup's texture.

Nutritional Benefits
This soup is a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Green beans are full of antioxidants, while spinach brings a significant amount of iron and vitamin K. The smoked meat adds a note of protein, as well as an explosion of flavors. In total, a serving of soup provides about 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of smoked meat used.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can the soup be prepared in advance?
Yes, the soup can be made a day ahead. Once cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving, adding a tablespoon of water if necessary.

2. Can I use other types of vegetables?
Of course! This soup is very versatile. You can add carrots, celery, or even pumpkin to slightly change its flavor profile.

3. What drinks pair well with this soup?
A warm soup like this pairs very well with a dry white wine or a warm herbal tea that complements the flavors.

Personal Note
This creamy green bean soup with spinach and smoked meat has become one of my favorite recipes, not only for its delicious taste but also for its versatility. It can be adapted according to the season and available ingredients, turning every meal into a culinary adventure. I recommend you try it and personalize it to your taste!

Enjoy your meal!