Spinach soup

Spinach soup - a healthy and comforting delight

Spinach soup is an excellent choice for those who want to combine delicious taste with nutritional benefits. This traditional vegetable soup recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings a touch of freshness through its simple yet nutritious ingredients. Spinach, the star of the recipe, is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, making the soup a true elixir for health. Moreover, it cooks quickly and is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 5

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh spinach
- 100 g onion
- 50 g butter or olive oil
- 50 g carrots
- 20 g celery
- 50 g tomato paste
- 50 ml oil
- 1 l borscht (or water, according to preference)
- A bunch of fresh lovage (or parsley, if preferred)
- Salt to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the spinach thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. Once cleaned, chop it finely. Peel, wash, and finely chop the onion. Peel the carrot and celery, then dice or grate them, depending on your preference.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add the butter or olive oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This step will bring a sweet and aromatic flavor to your soup.

3. Add the carrot and celery: Continue with the carrot and celery, sautéing them together with the onion for another 5 minutes. These vegetables will provide a flavorful base for the soup.

4. Including the spinach: Now is the perfect time to add the chopped spinach. Mix it well with the other vegetables and let it wilt for a few minutes until it significantly reduces in volume.

5. Tomato paste: Add the tomato paste and mix well. This will give the soup a vibrant color and rich flavor.

6. Adding the liquid: Pour the borscht or water into the pot, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Let it simmer on low heat, covered, for about 20 minutes.

7. Season: Finally, add salt to taste and the finely chopped lovage. Mix well and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

8. Serving: Spinach soup is served hot and can be garnished with sour cream or croutons for added flavor. It pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread.

Nutritional benefits:
Spinach soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system. Additionally, carrots add a considerable amount of beta-carotene, essential for eye health.

Practical tips:
- You can use frozen spinach if fresh is not available; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
- If you like a tangier taste, you can add a little lemon juice before serving.
- The soup can be enriched with protein by adding cooked chicken cubes or beans.

Possible variations:
- Instead of borscht, you can use vegetable broth for a more complex flavor.
- Add diced potatoes for a heartier texture.
- Experiment with other herbs, such as dill or coriander, to change the soup's aroma.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is a good option, just make sure to thaw and drain it before use.

2. How long can spinach soup be stored?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

3. Can other vegetables be added?
Absolutely! You can experiment with zucchini, green beans, or any other preferred vegetables.

This spinach soup recipe is not just a healthy meal but also an excellent way to reconnect with home flavors. Enjoy every spoonful, relishing the fresh aroma and the benefits it brings to your body. Whether it's a chilly day or you simply need comfort food, this soup will warm you up and make you feel good!