Green bean soup
Green Bean Soup: A Comforting Recipe for the Soul and Body
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
Green bean soup is a classic dish, perfect for chilly days when we crave something warm and comforting. This recipe brings together a variety of fresh vegetables, each contributing to a delicious taste and tempting aroma. In addition, green bean soup is a nutritious choice, rich in vitamins and minerals, and an excellent source of fiber. Let's discover together how to prepare it!
Ingredients
- 1 kg green beans (cleaned and chopped)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 1 zucchini (diced)
- 1 whole onion (preferably left whole for easier removal)
- 2 carrots (grated)
- 1 celery root (grated)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (to taste)
- 1 cup of tomato juice (preferably fresh)
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-step preparation
Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by cleaning and preparing all the vegetables. Grate the carrots and celery, and dice the peppers and zucchini. If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with various vegetables, such as peas or potatoes, which fit perfectly in this soup.
Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the grated carrots and celery, and diced peppers, and sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This process will help develop the flavors and give the soup a special taste.
Step 3: Boiling the soup
Once the vegetables are lightly sautéed, add water (about 4 liters) and let everything come to a boil. Then, add the whole onion (without chopping it, for easier removal later) and the cleaned and washed green beans. Don't forget to season to your taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer over medium heat for about 30-35 minutes, or until the beans and vegetables become tender.
Step 4: Final aroma
After the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato juice and season with pepper and thyme to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to combine the flavors. Finally, remove the onion and sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top of the soup, adding a note of freshness.
Serving and suggestions
Green bean soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta, making the meal even more flavorful. If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can drizzle the soup with a little olive oil or balsamic vinegar before serving.
Variations and useful tips
You can customize the recipe by adding other seasonal vegetables, such as pumpkin or potatoes. Also, for a heartier version, you can add some white beans or chickpeas.
If you're looking for a spicier version, add a few slices of chili pepper or a splash of hot pepper sauce to the soup. This will add an extra intensity to the flavor!
Nutritional benefits
Green bean soup is packed with nutrients. Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, which contributes to digestive health. Carrots and peppers are rich in antioxidants, and tomato juice provides a significant amount of lycopene, a compound with strong antioxidant properties.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen beans? Yes, frozen green beans are an excellent choice and can save time.
2. How long can the soup be stored? Green bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can easily reheat it.
3. Is the soup vegan? Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and can be an excellent option for those following a plant-based diet.
Conclusion
Green bean soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a blend of flavors and textures that brings comfort and warmth to every bowl. With each spoonful, you will feel how tradition and indulgence come together, making your meals more vibrant and healthy. So gather your ingredients and get ready to delight your taste buds with this delicious, quick, and simple soup recipe!
Ingredients: 1 kg green beans, 1 red pepper, 1 green pepper, 1 zucchini, 1 onion, 2 carrots, 1 celery root, 3 tablespoons of oil, salt, pepper, thyme, parsley, 1 cup of tomato juice
Tags: bean soup