Green bean soup

Green bean soup: a seasonal delight that will enchant your senses

Green bean soup is a recipe that brings a touch of freshness to every plate. This soup is not only a hearty dish but also an explosion of flavors, perfect for warm summer or spring days. In this recipe, you will discover how to transform simple ingredients into a delicacy, full of nutrients and flavor. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Your ingredients for a delicious soup:

- 700 g fresh green beans
- 2 large carrots
- 1/4 celery
- 1 white onion
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 200 ml tomato purée
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Preparing the soup: Step by step

1. Prepare the ingredients
Start by cleaning the green beans. Snap off the ends and rinse the beans under cold running water. Once cleaned, break the beans into pieces about 3-4 cm long. This step will not only help them cook evenly but will also add an appealing look to your soup.

2. Boil the vegetables
Take a 3-liter pot and fill it with water, then place it on the heat. While waiting for it to boil, peel the carrots and cut them into small cubes. You can use a sharp knife to get uniform pieces that will cook evenly. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add the carrots. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly golden and release their aromas. This step will enhance the flavor of the soup.

3. Add the vegetables to the water
Once the carrots are ready, transfer them to the pot with boiling water. Add the broken green beans, the cleaned and quartered onion (this will add flavor but will be removed before serving), and a piece of celery. Sprinkle salt to taste. Let it boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the tomatoes and bell pepper
Meanwhile, wash the tomatoes, blanch them in hot water for a few seconds, then peel and dice them. Cut the bell pepper into small pieces to add a crunchy texture to the soup. When the vegetables in the pot are nearly cooked, add the tomatoes and bell pepper. Let it boil for another 5-7 minutes.

5. Finish the soup
After all the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato purée and let the soup simmer for a few moments. Check the taste and adjust with salt if necessary. Remove the onion and celery from the pot to achieve a smooth texture.

6. Serving and garnishing
Immediately before serving, add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. You can enjoy the soup as is, but for added creaminess, top it with a few tablespoons of sour cream.

Useful tips for a perfect soup

- Choosing ingredients: Make sure to use fresh green beans. They provide a vibrant flavor and a crunchy texture. If you don’t have fresh green beans, you can use canned beans, but add them towards the end of cooking.
- Customizing the recipe: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or summer squash, to diversify the flavors. Additionally, adding spices like black pepper or smoked paprika can give an interesting taste.
- Storing the soup: Green bean soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, but to maintain the texture of the vegetables, avoid excessive boiling.

Nutritional benefits

Green bean soup is not only delicious but also extremely healthy. Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber that aids digestion. Carrots add a boost of beta-carotene, and tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans are a good option, especially out of season. Make sure to thaw and rinse them before use.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like it spicy, you can add chili flakes or a fresh chopped chili pepper, depending on your preferences.

3. What other recipes can accompany the soup?
Green bean soup pairs perfectly with a fresh summer salad or a serving of warm polenta. You can serve it alongside a slice of homemade bread for a complete meal.

Green bean soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the authentic taste of summer!