Summer soup with green beans
Summer Bean Soup – a delicious recipe that brings the garden flavors straight to your plate
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Summer Bean Soup is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for warm days when the fresh vegetables from the garden showcase their true beauty. This soup is not just a meal made from simple ingredients, but also a nostalgic memory, evoking moments spent in childhood when grandma lovingly gathered vegetables from the garden. Preparing this soup is an excellent choice to enjoy seasonal fresh vegetables, and its vibrant taste will transform any meal into a celebration of flavors.
Ingredients
- 300 g green and yellow beans (according to preference)
- 2 small summer carrots (for a sweeter taste)
- 1 large green onion
- 1 celery stalk
- 2-3 large ripe seasonal tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or other preferred oil)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 bunch of celery leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
About the ingredients: Choose fresh vegetables from the market or, if possible, from your own garden. The beans add texture and color to the soup, while the tomatoes add a sweet-sour taste that perfectly complements every bite.
A bit of history: Summer Bean Soup is a traditional recipe that symbolizes the richness of the summer season. It is a dish that has been prepared for generations, bringing families and friends together around the table. This simple recipe reflects the beauty of seasonal ingredients and the art of transforming fresh vegetables into a comforting meal.
Step-by-step instructions
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by cleaning and cutting the beans into pieces about 2-3 cm long. Peel and dice the carrots, and finely chop the green onion and celery stalk. Peel and chop the tomatoes, removing the seeds.
2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the green onion, carrot, and celery. Sautéing these vegetables will release their natural flavors and provide a unique taste to the soup. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent.
3. Adding the spices: Once the vegetables have a pleasant texture, add the sweet paprika. This will add warmth and vibrant color to the soup. Mix well to combine the flavors.
4. Adding water: Pour cold water into the pot to cover the vegetables. Add salt and pepper, then bring the soup to a boil.
5. Including the beans: Once the water starts to boil, add the beans. They will add a crunchy texture and fresh taste. Add a sprig of fresh thyme and let the soup simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the beans become tender.
6. Finishing the soup: After boiling, add the chopped tomatoes. They will break down slightly and enrich the soup with their juice. Let the soup simmer on low heat for another 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary.
7. Adding the greens: Finally, turn off the heat and add the chopped lovage and celery leaves. These will add a note of freshness and intense flavor. Let the soup sit covered for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.
Serving suggestions: Summer Bean Soup can be enjoyed plain, but for an extra creaminess, you can add a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt on top if you wish. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons.
Tips for a perfect result: Make sure the vegetables are fresh and in season for the best flavor. Also, adjusting the spices at the end will help you achieve a balanced taste. Feel free to experiment with other herbs, such as dill or basil, to add a personalized touch.
Nutritional benefits: Summer Bean Soup is a meal rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The beans are an excellent source of plant protein, while the fresh vegetables contribute to a healthy diet. It is a perfect option for those who want to enjoy a light and nutritious meal.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables instead of beans?
Yes, you can add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or summer squash to vary the recipe.
2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it before serving.
3. What other recipes can I try with beans?
Besides soup, beans can be used in salads, side dishes, or even baked dishes.
This Summer Bean Soup is not only a delicious recipe but also a way to bring cherished childhood memories to the table and enjoy fresh, healthy flavors. Take a moment to relax and savor every bite!
Ingredients: green beans (I used yellow and green), 2 small summer carrots, 1 large green onion, 1 celery stalk, 2-3 peeled and finely chopped tomatoes (without seeds), 1 tablespoon of oil, sweet paprika, and my favorite trio of herbs for this soup: fresh thyme, celery leaves, and lovage.
