Green Bean Soup

Green Bean Soup – an explosion of freshness and health on summer days

When the sun shines in the sky and seasonal vegetables are at hand, nothing compares to a green bean soup. This light and refreshing dish is perfect for hot days, providing a nutritious meal full of vitamins. Moreover, it cooks quickly and doesn’t require much time spent by the stove. So, let’s embark together on this delicious recipe!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g fresh green beans
- 2 large carrots (or more if they are small, from the garden)
- 1 parsnip
- 2-3 parsley roots
- 1 onion
- Celery leaves (about a handful)
- Fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
- 250 ml tomato juice (preferably from fresh or canned tomatoes)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

History of Green Bean Soup:

Green bean soup is a traditional dish often associated with summer meals. This recipe has been transformed and adapted over time, yet it still preserves the essence of fresh ingredients and natural flavors. It is a healthy dish, rich in fiber and vitamins, that has been appreciated by generations due to the ease with which it can be prepared.

Step by step for a delicious soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning and chopping the vegetables. Cut the ends of the green beans and rinse them well under cold running water. Then, peel the carrots, parsnip, and parsley root. Slice the carrots thinly, cube the parsnip, and cut the parsley root into slices.

2. Boiling the vegetables:
Take a large pot of 3-4 liters and bring water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the chopped vegetables and the green beans. Cover the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a flavorful soup.

3. Seasoning the soup:
After the vegetables have started to soften, add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t forget that you can adjust these seasonings according to your preferences.

4. Adding the tomato juice:
At the end of the 20 minutes, add the tomato juice and finely chopped celery leaves. Let the soup come to a boil again for a few minutes, so the flavors combine harmoniously.

5. Finalizing the dish:
Once the soup has boiled, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley. This will add a note of freshness and a wonderful taste.

6. Serving:
The green bean soup is served hot, either plain or with a spoonful of sour cream on top. This will add a pleasant creaminess and balance the flavors.

Useful tips:

- Choose fresh ingredients: The quality of the vegetables is essential. If you have access to a garden, use fresh vegetables, as they will bring extra flavor to your soup.
- Vary the ingredients: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to customize the recipe to your taste.
- The soup can be frozen: If you cooked more than you consumed, don’t hesitate to keep it in the freezer to enjoy later.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen beans?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

2. Is green bean soup suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe is completely vegan, providing a nutritious meal without animal-derived ingredients.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
You can add extra spices, such as sweet paprika or minced garlic, for an extra flavor boost.

Delicious combinations:

This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread, freshly baked, or with a seasonal salad. If you want a complete meal, you can serve it alongside a portion of warm polenta. Also, for a sweet treat after the meal, a seasonal fruit tart would be the ideal choice.

Nutritional benefits:

Green bean soup is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (potassium, iron). Green beans contribute to digestion and help maintain heart health. This recipe is also low in calories, making it suitable for a balanced diet.

By cooking this green bean soup, you not only enjoy a delicious meal but also indulge in an explosion of flavors and a healthy intake of nutrients. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience. Bon appétit!