Finally, spring has arrived!

Spring soup with sorrel and fresh greens

Spring makes its presence felt, and the markets become a true paradise of fresh vegetables and aromatic greens. Spring soup with sorrel is a comforting dish, full of vitamins and flavor, perfect for celebrating the season. This simple and quick recipe will bring an explosion of flavors and colors to your table, while providing a healthy portion of nutrients.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 2 stalks of green garlic
- 3 bunches of sorrel (preferably fresh, but frozen can also be used)
- 2 new carrots (or regular carrots)
- 1 piece of celery (old but full of flavor)
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 3 tablespoons of corn oil (or your preferred oil)
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 liter of borscht (you can use homemade borscht for an authentic taste)
- 5 liters of water

Recipe history
Spring soup has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, serving as a way to celebrate the arrival of warm weather. Fresh greens symbolize renewal and vitality, and the soup becomes a perfect dish to bring prosperity to the family. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it ideal for days when you want to enjoy a healthy and delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. Finely chop the green onions and green garlic. The carrots can be grated or diced, and the celery should be finely chopped. Wash the sorrel well and cut it into suitable pieces. The fresh greens (parsley and lovage) should also be chopped, but reserve some for decoration at the end.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the corn oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the green onions and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent and release their aroma. Add the carrots and celery and continue to sauté everything together, stirring occasionally, for another 5 minutes.

3. Boiling the soup: Pour the 5 liters of water into the pot and bring everything to a boil. Once the water starts to boil, add the sorrel and half of the chopped greens (parsley and lovage). Let it boil for about 10 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender.

4. Adding the borscht: After 10 minutes, add the borscht and let it boil for another 2 minutes. Here, you can adjust the soup's taste with salt, to your preference.

5. Finalizing the soup: Finally, add the remaining chopped greens and mix well. Let the soup boil for another 2-3 minutes, then remove it from the heat.

6. Serving: The spring soup can be served plain or with a spoonful of sour cream on top for added creaminess. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the sour cream. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:
- Instead of sorrel, you can experiment with other greens, such as spinach or nettles, to create a soup with a different flavor.
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include some diced potatoes or green beans in the recipe.
- This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread or polenta, making it an unforgettable dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Spring soup is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Sorrel is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, while carrots provide a good amount of beta-carotene. Greens like parsley and lovage contribute antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but the taste will be more intense if you use fresh vegetables. Choose high-quality frozen vegetables without additives.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? Add a chopped hot pepper or a little paprika for an extra flavor boost.

Ideal combinations:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing lunch. Additionally, a refreshing drink made from tomato juice or a dry white wine would perfectly complement the meal.

Remember, cooking is an art, and experimenting with ingredients and flavors can turn your recipes into true culinary masterpieces. Spring soup with sorrel is a perfect example of simple and healthy food that brings a touch of joy to every plate. So, head to the market, gather all the fresh ingredients, and enjoy the magic of spring in every spoonful!