Salad soup

Salad Soup - a comforting delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

In a culinary world filled with sophisticated recipes and elaborate dishes, salad soup shines through its simplicity and freshness. This recipe, although modest at first glance, offers a surprisingly rich taste and pleasant texture. It is ideal for hot summer days or to add a touch of greenery to winter tables. Let us be carried away by its flavors, step by step!

Ingredients

- 2 heads of green lettuce
- 150 ml milk
- 150 ml sour cream
- 4-5 pieces of bacon
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1½ tablespoons of dill (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Brief history

Salad soup has deep roots in culinary tradition, being an efficient way to make use of fresh vegetables. This type of soup has often been used during fasting periods or in the summer season when garden produce is in full bloom. It is a recipe that combines simple yet nutritious ingredients, bringing benefits not only for the body but also for the soul.

Preparing the salad soup

Step 1: Preparing the lettuce

Start by washing the heads of green lettuce well under a generous stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities or insects. After washing, chop them finely into thin strips for better integration into the soup.

Step 2: Boiling the lettuce

In a large pot, add 3 liters of water and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the chopped lettuce. Let it boil for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial as the lettuce will change its texture and release its delicate flavors into the water.

Step 3: Preparing the bacon

Meanwhile, in a separate pan, fry the bacon over medium heat. Cook until crispy and golden, then remove it onto a paper towel to absorb excess fat. This will add a savory taste to your soup.

Step 4: Sautéing the garlic

In the same pan where you fried the bacon, leave a bit of the remaining fat and add the finely chopped garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Add the dill and mix well.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients

After the lettuce has boiled, add the bacon and garlic mixture to the pot with the lettuce. Let everything simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to combine, creating a delicious base for the soup.

Step 6: Preparing the thickener

In a bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, and flour, mixing well to avoid lumps. Take a ladle of hot soup and gradually add it to the sour cream mixture, stirring continuously. This will help temper the sour cream so it doesn't curdle during cooking.

Step 7: Finalizing the soup

Put the sour cream mixture back into the pot with the soup. Cook on low heat, stirring gently for another 5-10 minutes. Here you can add salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a heartier soup, you can crack a few whole eggs into the soup, letting them cook gently.

Serving

Salad soup is served hot, with crispy bread croutons or a slice of fresh homemade bread. You can garnish each plate with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few fresh dill leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Practical tips

- Calories and nutritional benefits: This soup is rich in vitamins, especially vitamins K and A, due to the lettuce. The bacon adds a source of protein and healthy fats, but if you want a lighter version, you can substitute the bacon with chicken breast or tofu.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables added to the soup, such as carrots or celery, to give it a more complex flavor. You can also use different herbs, such as basil or thyme.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can the soup be frozen?: Although the soup can be frozen, it is best to avoid freezing ingredients with milk or sour cream, as they can change texture.
- Can I use iceberg lettuce?: Yes, although green lettuce has a more delicate flavor, iceberg lettuce can add a crunchy texture but will require a longer boiling time.

Delicious combinations

This soup pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade. Additionally, a simple green salad with lemon and olive oil can complement the meal, bringing an extra touch of freshness.

In conclusion, salad soup is not just a simple recipe, but also an excellent way to bring nature to your table. With every bite, you will feel the freshness of the ingredients and enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. Bon appétit!