Spinach soup

Spinach Soup – a Healthy and Comforting Delight

Spinach soup is a traditional recipe that combines health with delicious taste. It is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a light, nutrient-rich soup, perfect for any time of the year. Spinach, a versatile ingredient rich in vitamins, makes this soup an ideal choice for a quick lunch or light dinner. Moreover, each spoonful of soup will bring a touch of comfort and warmth.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh spinach (or frozen, if necessary)
- 3 l water
- 2 large onions
- 1 carrot
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 200 g tomato paste
- 1 egg
- 1-2 tablespoons vinegar (or lemon juice, for acidity)
- salt to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped

Tip: Make sure the spinach is fresh and green, without yellow spots, to enjoy the best nutritional benefits. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin K, so don’t hesitate to incorporate it into your regular diet.

Preparation:
1. Start by cleaning and finely chopping the two onions. Peel the carrot and slice it thinly. These vegetables will form the flavorful base of your soup.
2. In a large pot, add the 3 l of water and place it over medium heat. Once the water starts to boil, add the chopped onion and carrot. Let them boil for about 10-15 minutes until the carrot becomes soft.
3. Meanwhile, wash the spinach well under cold running water to remove any impurities. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is completely thawed and well-drained.
4. Add the spinach to the pot along with the tomato paste, salt, and oil. Mix everything well and let the soup boil for another 5 minutes. This is when the spinach will slightly change color, becoming a vibrant green.
5. After 5 minutes, add vinegar or lemon juice to give the soup a pleasant tanginess. Then, beat the egg in a small bowl and gradually pour it into the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it boil for another 2 minutes.
6. Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh dill. The dill will bring a spring fragrance and perfectly complement the soup's flavor.

Serving: Spinach soup is served warm, with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. If you like, you can also add a bit of yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.

Variations: This recipe can be adapted according to your preferences. For example, you can add diced potatoes to give it a richer consistency, or you can try adding vegetables like zucchini or green beans.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can spinach soup be made in advance?
Yes, spinach soup can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. It is recommended to reheat it before serving.

2. Is spinach soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can omit the egg and use an egg substitute or simply serve it without. The soup will remain delicious and healthy!

3. Can I use frozen spinach?
Absolutely! Frozen spinach is just as nutritious, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the recipe.

Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of spinach soup contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil and egg used. The benefits of spinach are numerous, having a high content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals essential for a strong immune system.

Recipes and drinks to serve alongside: This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh raw vegetable salad or vegetable chips. For a complete meal, you can add mashed potatoes or warm polenta. As for drinks, fresh lemonade or herbal tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Culinary indulgence can also be simple! So, arm yourself with patience and enjoy the cooking process. Spinach soup is not just a recipe, but an experience that will bring a smile to your face and health in every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!