Healthy cold soup

Healthy cold soup is a perfect choice for warm summer days or for moments when we seek a light meal, full of vitamins and flavor. This traditional recipe, often associated with convivial moments, reminds us of the joy of eating healthily. Additionally, it is an excellent option for those who want to maintain their figure, as it is low in calories but rich in essential nutrients.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 6-8 hours
Total time: 6-8 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 medium carrot
- 1/2 celery (about 150 g)
- 4-5 green onion stalks or 1 dried onion
- 2-3 green garlic stalks or 2-3 cloves of dried garlic
- 600 g ripe tomatoes (fresh or canned, peeled and diced)
- 1-1.5 liters of fresh borscht
- 1 teaspoon grated horseradish (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs: lamb's lettuce, chard, lovage, tarragon, parsley, celery leaves, beet greens (all optional, but add fantastic flavor)

Instructions:
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the carrot and celery, and grate them, ensuring you get thin, evenly sized strips. Chop the onion and garlic finely, so they integrate perfectly into the soup and bring an intense flavor.

2. The herbs: Wash the herbs and chop them finely. Here you can play with combinations, adding herbs that you like the most. Lovage and tarragon provide a distinct aroma, while parsley adds a fresh note.

3. Marinating: In a large bowl, mix all the grated and chopped vegetables, add the chopped herbs, and pour in the fresh borscht. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it marinate for 6-8 hours. This step is essential to allow the flavors to combine and the vegetables to become tender.

4. Finalizing the soup: After the vegetables have marinated, add 1-1.5 liters of boiled and cooled water or still water, depending on how sour you want the soup to be. If you prefer a more intense flavor, opt for 1.5 liters of borscht. Add the peeled and diced tomatoes, salt, and thyme to taste.

5. Serving: The healthy soup can be served cold or at room temperature. If you want to add creaminess and flavor, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream on top before serving. It’s a delicious combination that enhances the texture and aroma of the soup.

Practical tips:
- If you don't have access to fresh borscht, you can use lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to add acidity and flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs depending on the season and your preferences. The soup is very versatile and can be easily adapted.
- This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it ideal for meal prep.
- For a heartier version, you can add cooked vegetables or rice.

Nutritional benefits:
This healthy soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. Carrots and celery are high in fiber, aiding digestion, while tomatoes are an excellent source of antioxidants like lycopene. The herbs not only add flavor but also essential nutrients for the body.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can the soup be kept in the fridge? It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to benefit from all the vitamins.
- Can I add meat to this recipe? Yes, if you prefer a meat version, you can add boiled chicken or beef, finely chopped.
- What drinks pair well with this soup? Freshly squeezed lemonade or a cold herbal tea are excellent choices that perfectly complement the meal.

Healthy cold soup is undoubtedly a revitalizing dish that will bring you joy and health on your plate. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, it is a recipe that will delight you with every spoonful. Enjoy your meal!