Spring soup

Spring Soup with Fresh Greens

When spring makes its presence felt, nature comes back to life, and gardens bloom with the most vibrant colors and aromas. It is the perfect time to enjoy the bounty of fresh greens and indulge in a delicious soup, full of freshness and vitamins. This spring soup recipe with greens is not only simple but also extremely healthy, bringing a touch of sunshine to every bowl.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh spinach
- 1 head of lettuce
- 5 green onions
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of dill
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 5-6 cloves of garlic
- 2 l water
- 2 l whey (thick whey drained from cheese)
- 20 ml oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste (about a pinch)

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing all the ingredients. Wash the spinach, lettuce, and greens thoroughly. Chop the green onions, parsley, dill, and lovage finely. These will bring an intense and fresh flavor to your soup.

2. In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and place it over medium heat. Wait for it to reach boiling point.

3. Once the water begins to boil, add the chopped green onions. Let it boil for about 5 minutes for the flavors to develop.

4. Then add the chopped spinach and lettuce. These green vegetables will wilt quickly and add a pleasant texture to the soup.

5. In a small pan, heat the oil and add the finely chopped garlic. Sauté it over low heat until it turns golden, being careful not to burn it, as it will become bitter. Once sautéed, add the garlic to the pot with the soup.

6. Now it's time to add the whey. This not only refreshes the soup but also gives it a pleasant creaminess. Let everything boil together for 5-10 minutes.

7. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Don't forget to add the remaining chopped greens, including parsley, dill, and lovage. Gently stir and let the soup come to a boil again.

8. When all the ingredients are well integrated, you can turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving. This step allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Serving suggestion:
Serve this soup warm, sprinkled with a little freshly ground pepper and, if you wish, you can add a spoonful of sour cream for an extra creaminess. A slice of fresh bread on the side will perfectly complement this dish.

Tips and variations:
- If you want a tangier note, you can add lemon juice or a tablespoon of vinegar.
- Replace the whey with vegetable broth for a vegan version.
- You can also add potatoes or carrots for a heartier texture.
- This soup can be adapted according to the season, using other available greens.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, thanks to the fresh greens. It is also rich in antioxidants and fiber, promoting digestion and strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen greens?
Yes, but the taste will be less intense. It is recommended to use fresh greens for the best flavor.

2. How long can the soup be stored in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat it before serving.

3. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to benefit from all the nutrients.

This spring soup is not just a delicious dish but also a perfect way to enjoy the bounty of nature and bring a touch of health to your diet. Whether you savor it alone or share it with loved ones, every bowl of this soup will bring joy and energy. Try it and let yourself be inspired by its fresh taste!