Spinach soup

Spinach Soup with Vegetables - A Vitamin-Packed Delicacy

How wonderful it is to have a soup that combines delicious taste with nutritional benefits on your plate! Spinach soup with vegetables is not just a simple recipe but a true treasure for health. This easy-to-cook dish is perfect for both chilly days and moments when you need a light, vitamin-rich meal. Whether you choose fresh or frozen spinach, you will get a flavorful soup that will delight you. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g fresh or frozen spinach
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 1 large tomato
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- 2 liters of meat broth (or water, for a vegetarian option)
- 1 egg

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot
- Grater
- Garlic press
- Ladle
- Wooden spoon

Step by step

1. Preparing the ingredients: If using fresh spinach, start by tearing off the stems, then wash it well under cold running water. Tear the leaves into smaller pieces by hand. If you choose frozen spinach, there is no need to thaw it - you can use it directly. Feel free to choose spinach from Casa Țăranului, a brand known for its quality.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the carrot and parsley root, then grate them with a large-holed grater. The garlic cloves can be pressed or finely chopped, depending on your preference. Cut the tomato into small cubes.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat it. Add the grated carrot and parsley and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften a bit.

4. Adding spinach and broth: Incorporate the spinach (whether fresh or frozen) and mix well. After a few minutes, add the meat broth and let it boil.

5. Finalizing the soup: Add the pressed garlic, cubed tomato, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of intensity. Let the soup come to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for 15 minutes until the vegetables are cooked.

6. Incorporating the egg: In a small bowl, beat the egg well. Add 1-2 ladles of hot soup over the beaten egg and quickly mix to temper it. Then, pour the entire egg mixture into the soup and stir well. Turning off the heat is essential to avoid the egg curdling suddenly.

7. Serving: The soup is now ready! It can be served hot, and for an extra flavor boost, add a tablespoon of sour cream or a bit of juice from pickled hot peppers. These will add a pleasant contrast and a spicy note.

Useful tips:
- Vegetarian option: If you want a completely vegetarian soup, replace the meat broth with water or vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables, such as potatoes or zucchini, to make the soup heartier.
- Fresh parsley: Add a handful of freshly chopped parsley at the end to enhance the aroma and add a splash of color.
- Stronger flavor: If you like your soup spicier, you can also add a finely chopped hot pepper along with the cayenne pepper.

Nutritional benefits:
Spinach soup is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, calcium, and antioxidants, making it a reliable ally for the immune system and bone health. Spinach is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to improve cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned spinach?: While not recommended, if that's what you have on hand, you can use canned spinach, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since it is already cooked.
- Can I freeze the soup?: Yes, this soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.

Serving recommendations:
I recommend serving the spinach soup with a slice of toasted whole-grain bread or homemade croutons for a complete culinary experience. A glass of tomato juice or fresh lemonade can perfectly complement this meal.

Spinach soup with vegetables is an easy-to-make recipe that can quickly become your favorite. Full of flavors and nutrients, it is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, and if you add a personal touch, it will surely become a memorable dish for your family and friends. Enjoy your meal!