Green bean soup

Green Bean Soup - A Light and Vitamin-Packed Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

When it comes to soups, nothing compares to a fresh green bean soup, especially when seasonal vegetables are in abundance. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely healthy, making it perfect for hot summer days when we crave light and nutrient-rich dishes. Green bean soup is an excellent choice for both those who are fasting and those following a healthy diet.

The history of this soup is closely tied to culinary traditions in regions with mild climates, where fresh vegetables are a staple. Green bean soup is often prepared in households, with each family having its secret recipe, but the basic ingredients remain consistently delicious.

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g fresh green beans
- 2 green onions
- 1 green garlic stalk
- 4 small carrots
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- A generous handful of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Radishes, for serving
- Optional: lemon juice, for a tangy kick

Ingredient details:
Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, making them an excellent source of fiber. Carrots provide beta-carotene, while tomatoes are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Onions and garlic not only add flavor but also have anti-inflammatory benefits. Parsley, aside from being a fresh ingredient, is rich in vitamin C and iron.

Step by step for a perfect soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by thoroughly washing all the vegetables. Carrots, onions, garlic, and bell pepper should be peeled and cut into appropriate pieces. Carrots can be sliced into rounds, while onions and garlic can be finely chopped. Cut the green beans into 2-3 cm pieces, and dice the tomatoes.

2. Boiling the vegetables:
In a large pot, add about 1.5 liters of water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add a pinch of salt and the chopped vegetables. Start with the carrots and onions, as they need more time to soften. Let them boil for about 10 minutes.

3. Adding the beans and other ingredients:
Add the green beans and diced bell pepper to the pot. Continue to boil over medium heat for 10 minutes. Finally, add the tomatoes and green garlic, leaving the soup on the heat for another 5-10 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.

4. Finalizing the soup:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a tangy flavor, now is the time to add the lemon juice.

5. Serving:
Pour the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Add a few sliced radishes for a pop of color and crunch. You can enjoy the soup warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.

Useful tips:
- If you don’t have fresh green beans, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure they are of good quality.
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add some spices like thyme or oregano.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavors become even more pronounced as it cools.

Frequently asked questions:
1. What can I do if I don’t have all the ingredients available?
You can adapt the recipe based on the vegetables you have. For example, you can replace carrots with zucchini or add potatoes to make the soup heartier.

2. Is it possible to make green bean soup vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan, but make sure to use fresh vegetables and a quality vegetable broth for a deeper flavor.

3. Can I freeze green bean soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to make it without adding the parsley and radishes. Add these fresh ingredients after thawing and reheating.

Delicious combinations:
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh whole-grain bread or a crunchy green salad. Additionally, a cup of herbal tea or a glass of lemon water can perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this green bean soup recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and becomes a staple in your menu. Enjoy every vitamin-packed and fresh bite!