Green bean soup

Green bean soup with vegetables

Green bean soup is a warm, comforting dish, perfect for chilly winter days. This simple recipe is popular due to its versatility and the possibility of using home-preserved ingredients, making it a true winter feast. Additionally, it combines the flavors of vegetables with nutritional benefits, being rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. I invite you to discover the magic of this soup, which will not only warm your soul but also bring a touch of nostalgia to your plate.

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

Ingredients:

- 1 jar (820 ml) of cooked green beans
- 1 large fresh carrot
- 1 large parsley root (or celery, according to preferences)
- 1/2 red onion
- 1 tablespoon of winter vegetable preserve
- 1 tablespoon of roasted red pepper paste (or red bell pepper)
- 2 small ripe tomatoes
- Green celery leaves (or parsley) for garnish
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)

Preparing the vegetables

The first step is to prepare the vegetables. Peel the carrot and parsley root, washing them well under cold running water. Make sure to drain them properly to avoid diluting the soup. Cut the carrot and parsley into small cubes, and leave the onion whole to preserve its flavors. Wash the tomatoes well and slice them thinly. These will add a note of freshness and color to your soup.

Sautéing the vegetables

In a large pot, heat the two tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and sauté them until the oil takes on a beautiful yellow hue, about 3-4 minutes. This step will not only enhance the flavor of the carrot but will also provide a delicious base for your soup.

Adding the ingredients

After the carrots have softened, add the parsley, onion, and sliced tomatoes. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes release their juice and blend with the other ingredients. Then, add the green beans from the jar, the preserved vegetables, and the roasted red pepper paste. These ingredients will enrich the soup's broth and add a rich, comforting taste.

Cooking the soup

Over the vegetable mixture, add enough water to cover the ingredients, about 1 liter. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes. Make sure the vegetables are well cooked, but don’t overdo it to avoid them becoming too soft. Finally, taste the soup and season with freshly ground pepper, to your liking.

Serving the soup

Once the soup is ready, I recommend serving it hot in deep bowls, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. A side of hot chili pepper will provide a pleasant contrast, and a slice of freshly baked bread will perfectly complement this comforting dish. Add green celery leaves or parsley for a more vibrant look and fresh aroma.

Variations and suggestions

If you want to customize this recipe, you can add other vegetables, such as diced potatoes or zucchini. You can also experiment with spices, adding a bit of thyme or sweet paprika for extra flavor. Instead of sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen green beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but you will need to boil them first to soften them.

2. Can I add meat to this soup?
Absolutely! A small piece of chicken or pork, diced, can be added along with the carrots for a heartier version.

3. What other recipes can I make with leftover vegetables?
Leftover vegetables can be used to prepare a fresh salad or as a side dish for other meals.

Nutritional benefits

This soup is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, being rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh and preserved vegetables. Green beans are a good source of fiber and plant protein, while carrots provide beta-carotene, essential for eye health.

This green bean soup with vegetables is not just a simple recipe but also a wonderful way to add warmth and joy to cold winter days. I encourage you to try it and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!