Bean soup

Green Bean Soup - A Comforting and Flavorful Experience

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Green bean soup is a traditional dish that brings the fresh taste of summer to your table, even on cooler days. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for enjoying the benefits of vegetables, being a healthy and nutritious choice. The beans, rich in fiber and vitamins, are the stars of this dish, and combining them with other vegetables makes them even more delicious. Let's dive into preparing this delight!

Ingredients

- 500 g green beans (preferably fresh, but you can also use frozen)
- 1/2 celery
- 1/2 parsnip
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 onion
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons oil (preferably olive oil)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Magic borscht (or another preferred spice blend)
- Delicate (or another natural flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh herbs (parsley, dill, lovage)

Nutritional Information

This soup is an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The green beans are a good source of plant-based protein, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Each serving of soup contains approximately 150 calories, making it ideal for a light yet nourishing meal.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cleaning the vegetables. Trim the ends of the green beans and peel the celery and parsnip. Wash all the vegetables well, then cut the green beans into pieces about 3-4 cm long, and chop the other vegetables (bell peppers, onion) as desired. It’s important to have all the ingredients ready to facilitate the cooking process.

2. Boiling the Green Beans
In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the chopped green beans and 1-2 tablespoons of oil. Let them boil for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly tender. The oil will help improve the overall texture and flavor of the soup.

3. Adding the Vegetables
After the green beans have boiled a bit, add the remaining vegetables (celery, parsnip, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion). Stir well and let everything boil for 15-20 minutes. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to your soup.

4. Seasoning the Soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, add spices to taste: salt, pepper, magic borscht, and delicate. Mix well and add the tomato paste, which will give the soup a beautiful red hue and rich flavor. Then, crush the garlic and add it to the pot. Let the soup boil for another 5-10 minutes for the flavors to blend harmoniously.

5. Finishing the Soup
Remove the soup from heat and add the chopped fresh herbs (parsley, dill, lovage). This will add a fresh taste and a vibrant color to your soup. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

Serving Suggestions

Green bean soup is served hot, ideally alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can add a tablespoon of sour cream for extra creaminess, or even a drizzle of olive oil on top for a more intense flavor. This soup pairs perfectly with a summer salad or fresh cottage cheese on the side.

Recipe Variations

If you want to personalize your soup, you can also add other seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini. You can also experiment with different types of spices. A delicious variation is to add a pinch of sweet or hot paprika for a spicier taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans are an excellent alternative. Make sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.

- How long can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can easily reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

- Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Green bean soup is completely vegan and can be enjoyed by everyone.

Final Notes

Green bean soup is not just a delicious meal, but also a dish that connects you with culinary traditions. Each bite will remind you of warm summer days and gardens full of vegetables. So, don't hesitate to try this simple yet flavorful recipe. Cook with love and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!