Lamb's lettuce and chard soup

Lamb's Lettuce and Swiss Chard Soup: An Explosion of Summer Freshness

Lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard soup is a perfect choice for hot summer days when we crave something refreshing and full of vitamins. This recipe is based on simple yet nutrient-rich ingredients and is an excellent way to take advantage of seasonal greens. We're talking about a soup that not only delights the taste buds but also enriches the diet with antioxidants and minerals.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

1. 1 large onion
2. 2 carrots
3. 1 red bell pepper
4. 1 yellow bell pepper
5. Half a head of celery
6. Salt and seasoning (to taste)
7. A bowl of lamb's lettuce leaves (green and red)
8. A bowl of Swiss chard leaves
9. 4 eggs
10. Fresh chopped lovage

To make this lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard soup even more special, you can add a splash of lemon or a tablespoon of sour cream when serving, for an extra creaminess and acidity. Additionally, a serving of cold polenta and red onion complements this dish perfectly.

A brief history

Lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, appreciated for its nutritional properties and refreshing taste. Over time, people have discovered that these greens are not only delicious but also have health benefits, such as improving digestion and strengthening the immune system.

Step-by-step for a perfect soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, and bell peppers (red and yellow) into small cubes. This will help the vegetables cook evenly.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for a few minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and bell peppers, continuing to sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

3. Boiling the vegetables: Add half a head of finely chopped celery and a teaspoon of salt. Pour in 500 ml of water and let the vegetables boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, until fully cooked.

4. Preparing the lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard: While the vegetables are boiling, wash the lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard well. Bring 2 liters of water to a boil in another pot. Once the water is boiling, add the lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard, letting them boil for 2-3 minutes. This process will help preserve the vibrant green color and remove bitterness.

5. Chopping the greens: Drain the lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard and chop them finely. Then add them to the pot with the boiled vegetables, mixing well. For a deeper flavor, you can also add the water in which you boiled the greens, which will have a reddish hue due to the lamb's lettuce.

6. Adding the borscht: After mixing all the ingredients well, add about 1 liter of homemade borscht (previously boiled). Let the soup boil for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Preparing the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the 4 eggs with a pinch of salt. In a separate pan, heat 4-5 tablespoons of oil and pour in the beaten eggs, forming an omelet. Cook until golden, then cut it into small pieces.

8. Finalizing the soup: Add the omelet pieces to the pot with the soup and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust the salt as needed. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh lovage for an extra touch of freshness.

9. Serving: Serve the lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard soup hot, alongside cold polenta and red onion, for a combination of flavors and textures that will delight everyone who tastes it.

Useful suggestions:

- Variations: You can experiment by adding other greens, such as parsley or dill, to customize your soup. You can also replace the eggs with tofu for a vegan option.
- Preservation: If you have a garden or can obtain fresh lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard, I recommend freezing them for use throughout the year. Once prepared, the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor will intensify as the aromas blend.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can this soup be served cold? Yes, lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard soup can also be enjoyed cold, making it an excellent choice for very hot days.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can add rice or short pasta to make the soup heartier, or even chicken for a richer version.

Nutritional benefits:

Lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Lamb's lettuce is rich in vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants, while Swiss chard contains calcium and fiber, aiding digestion. This soup provides a light, cleansing, and energizing meal, ideal for supporting a healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, lamb's lettuce and Swiss chard soup is not just a simple dish but also a recipe full of memories and flavor. I invite you to try it and enjoy its fresh flavors, with each bite transporting you to a sunny summer. You might even find inspiration to develop your own variations!