Spinach soup

Spinach soup – an explosion of flavors and nutrients in a comforting bowl

Spinach soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of childhood meals, when parents' worries transformed into the joy of a delicious and healthy meal. This soup is not only a delicious choice but also a rich source of vitamins and minerals, ideal for boosting our immune system. If you are looking for a simple, quick, and nutritious recipe, you have come to the right place!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6

The basic ingredients are fresh and full of flavor, and each of them brings a distinct note to this soup. Here’s what you will need:

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 slice of celery, grated
- 1 small zucchini, diced
- 450 g of spinach (leaves, frozen or fresh)
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon of rice
- 2 tablespoons of salt (or to taste)
- 3 liters of water
- 400 ml of sour borscht
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 bunch of dill, finely chopped

Preparing the spinach soup

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. This step is essential because fresh vegetables will make your soup taste vibrant. Finely chop the onion and grate the carrot. Slice the bell pepper thinly, and dice the potatoes. It is important that all vegetables are cut evenly to cook at the same time.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step helps to intensify the flavors. You can add a pinch of salt at this stage to extract the juices from the vegetables.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
Add the bell pepper, celery, and zucchini to the pot. Mix well and let the vegetables sauté for another 2-3 minutes. The oil will help extract the natural flavors, and the combination of vegetables will bring an incredible taste.

Step 4: Boiling the soup
In a separate pot, bring 3 liters of water to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, pour it over the sautéed vegetables in the pot. Add the diced potatoes and let everything boil for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes become soft. In the meantime, you can check occasionally to ensure everything is boiling evenly.

Step 5: Finalizing the soup
After the potatoes are cooked, add the can of tomatoes, rice, and spinach. These ingredients will add a splash of color and texture. Let everything boil for another 10 minutes. The tomatoes add a slightly sweet taste, while the spinach will give the soup a distinct note and vibrant color.

Step 6: Adding the borscht
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the sour borscht. This will give the soup a pleasant acidity and intensify the flavors. You can adjust the amount of salt at this moment, depending on your preferences.

Step 7: Finishing
Finally, add the freshly chopped dill, mix well, and turn off the heat. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to combine perfectly and intensify.

Serving and suggestions
Spinach soup is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or with a spoonful of sour cream on top. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a touch of freshness. This soup pairs perfectly with a green salad on the side for a complete lunch or dinner.

Nutritional benefits
Spinach soup is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals such as iron and calcium. Spinach is known for its antioxidant properties and for supporting eye health. Additionally, the vegetables in the soup provide a significant amount of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach is an excellent choice and will break down during cooking just like fresh spinach.

2. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini, peas, or even green beans to diversify the soup.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like spicy food, you can add a finely chopped chili pepper or a few drops of chili sauce during boiling.

Possible variations
To give a personal touch to your soup, you can add spices like turmeric or cumin, which will not only enhance the flavor but also add a splash of color. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free and protein-rich option.

In conclusion, spinach soup is an excellent choice for any time of the year. It is easy to prepare, full of nutrients, and, most importantly, delicious! So, don’t hesitate to try it and enjoy its benefits. Bon appétit!