Summer vegetable soup

Summer vegetable soup with chicken breast

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Summer vegetable soup is a dish that brings joy and freshness to every bowl. This recipe combines fresh ingredients, delicious flavors, and nutritional benefits, making it a perfect meal for warm days. The origins of this soup can be found in the culinary traditions of many cultures, symbolizing the summer season when vegetables are at their peak of taste and freshness.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300 g)
- 2 large carrots
- 2 parsley roots
- 1 piece of celery (approximately 100 g)
- 3 medium onions
- 150 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 150 g green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small cauliflower (approximately 300 g)
- 4-5 new potatoes (or 2-3 large potatoes)
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper (any color)
- Fresh parsley and celery leaves
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Vegetables such as carrots, peas, and cauliflower are excellent sources of antioxidants, fiber, and B vitamins. The chicken breast adds lean protein, contributing to a balanced nutritional intake.

Step-by-step preparation of the soup:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash the chicken breast well under cold running water, removing the skin. Cut it into small cubes for even cooking. Peel the carrots, parsley roots, celery, and onions, then chop them into small cubes.

2. Heat the oil: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables (carrots, parsley roots, celery, and onion) and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent and release their aromas.

3. Boil the chicken breast: In another pot, bring 1.5 liters of water to a boil and add the chicken breast. Let it boil for about 15-20 minutes, skimming off the foam that forms on the surface. At this point, add salt to taste.

4. Add water to the vegetables: After the vegetables have been sautéed, pour enough water over them to cover the ingredients. Allow everything to come to a boil. Once it starts boiling, add the green beans and let it simmer on low heat, covered, for 15 minutes.

5. Add the remaining ingredients: Meanwhile, the chicken breast has boiled. Remove it from the water and cut it into small cubes. Strain the broth in which the meat was boiled and pour it over the vegetables in the pot. Add the chicken cubes, peas, cauliflower florets, and diced potatoes. Season with salt to taste.

6. Tomatoes and bell pepper: Blanch the tomatoes for a few seconds in hot water, then peel them and cut them into cubes. Also, chop the bell pepper into small pieces. Add them to the soup and let everything boil for another 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

7. Finishing touches: Finally, chop the parsley and celery leaves and add them to the pot. Cover with a lid and let the soup sit for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

Practical tip: If you want a heartier soup, you can add a handful of rice or quinoa, which will absorb some of the soup's juice, providing a pleasant texture.

Serving:
Serve the summer vegetable soup warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or with croutons. A delicious option is to add a chili pepper on the edge of the plate for a bit of spice. You can pair it with natural yogurt, which will balance the flavors and add a creaminess.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted with pork or beef, but consider adjusting the cooking time based on the type of meat chosen.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you enjoy spicy dishes, you can add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes during preparation.

3. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, the vegetable soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to do so without potatoes, as they may become mushy after defrosting.

4. What other vegetables can I use?
The soup is extremely versatile. You can add zucchini, squash, or even mushrooms, depending on your preferences.

Final notes:
Enjoy the final result! The summer vegetable soup with chicken breast is not only a delicious dish but also a healthy choice, full of vitality. This is a meal that will not only satisfy your hunger but also warm your soul. Don't forget to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on the recipe. Enjoy your meal!