Bean soup

Green bean soup with vegetables - a recipe full of flavor and health

Bean soup is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a light, nutritious, and delicious dish. This recipe stands out for its combination of fresh vegetables and beans, providing not only a comforting meal but also a rich source of nutrients. Suitable at any time, this soup is also ideal for those following a fasting diet. Let's explore together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 300 g pre-cooked white beans (ideally homemade, but canned can also be an option)
- 1 medium onion
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (to taste)
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes or 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 leek
- 300 g green beans
- 1 tablespoon of pre-cooked rice
- Salt, pepper, and rosemary, to taste
- A handful of fresh green basil
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Bread (for serving)

First step: preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. Then, peel the garlic, saving half of it for later use. Cut the leek into thin rounds. If using fresh green beans, clean them and cut them into pieces about 2-3 cm long. Cook the white beans (if not using canned) until soft but not mushy.

Second step: sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot or multicooker, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. Then, add the finely chopped garlic (reserve half for the bread) and let it sauté together with the onion for a few minutes until it releases its aroma.

Third step: adding the beans and vegetables
Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the cooked white beans (with the cooking liquid), green beans, and leek. Let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This time will allow the vegetables to combine and transfer their flavors.

Fourth step: completing the soup
After 15 minutes, add the pre-cooked rice and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and add ground pepper and rosemary. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.

Fifth step: preparing the basil paste
In a blender, add the remaining garlic, green basil leaves, and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Blend until you get a smooth paste. Add 1-2 tablespoons of this paste to the soup for extra flavor, and you can keep the rest to spread on the bread slices.

Sixth step: preparing the bread
On a baking tray, arrange the bread slices and bake them in the oven for a few minutes until they dry out and become crispy. Once ready, spread them with the basil paste to give them a fresh and aromatic taste.

Serving:
Serve the soup hot, alongside the bread slices spread with basil paste. This will add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the soup. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves on top for an elegant look and extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in plant proteins from beans, vitamins from vegetables, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. One serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of olive oil used and the type of bread served.

Possible variations:
- You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to diversify the soup.
- Replace the rice with quinoa or whole pasta for a heartier option.
- For a spicy note, add a finely chopped chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans? Yes, it is an excellent option to save time. Make sure to rinse them well before use.
2. How can I make the soup creamier? You can add a vegetable puree or a boiled and mashed potato to achieve a richer consistency.
3. Is this soup suitable for children? Yes, it is a healthy and tasty recipe, and the vegetables can be adjusted to children's tastes.

To make this soup an unforgettable dish, feel free to experiment with various ingredients and flavors. This is the essence of cooking – you have transformed a simple recipe into a personal gastronomic experience. Enjoy your meal!