Vegetable soup

Vegetable soup is a wonderful choice for days when we want to enjoy the fresh taste of vegetables, accompanied by a comforting flavor. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also extremely healthy, packed with essential nutrients. So, get ready to discover a delicious and refreshing recipe, perfect for the whole family!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 500 ml chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon risoni pasta
- 1 bunch of sorrel
- 1 bunch of parsley
- ½ bunch of dill
- 1 egg yolk
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon vinegar

Recipe history:
Vegetable soup is a traditional dish, cherished over time for its nutritional benefits and vibrant taste. It is said that, in simpler times, housewives would prepare this soup with fresh greens from their own gardens, turning it into a nourishing and comforting meal, ideal for the whole family. This recipe has evolved, being adapted to different cultures and culinary styles, but its essence - the freshness of the ingredients - has remained constant.

Step by step for a perfect soup:

1. Preparing the soup:
In a medium pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. If using store-bought broth, choose a quality one, without additives or preservatives. This will add a rich and authentic flavor to the dish.

2. Cooking the pasta:
When the broth starts to boil, add the risoni pasta. They cook quickly and have a pleasant texture, perfect for a soup. Let them boil for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the greens:
While the pasta is cooking, carefully wash the sorrel, parsley, and dill. These greens not only add color but also a fresh and vibrant aroma to the soup. Use a blender to mix the greens with the olive oil, creating a smooth paste. You will notice how the flavors combine, creating a delicious base for the soup.

4. Adding the yolk:
Incorporate the egg yolk into the greens mixture. This will give the soup a creamy consistency and a rich taste. Add this mixture to the boiling soup, adjusting the flavor with salt and pepper. Be careful not to let the soup boil too hard after adding the greens, just warm it up.

5. Preparing the poached eggs:
In another pot, bring a little water and the vinegar to a boil. The vinegar helps keep the eggs' shape during boiling. Carefully crack the eggs and add them to the water one by one. Let them boil for about 4 minutes to achieve a soft but well-cooked yolk.

6. Serving the soup:
Once the eggs are ready, divide the soup into two deep plates. Carefully place a poached egg on top of each serving. The vegetable soup can be served immediately, garnished with a few fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Practical tips:
- Choose fresh ingredients: Buy fresh greens, preferably from the local market. This will make a difference in the soup's flavor.
- Pasta varieties: If you don't have risoni, you can use other types of small pasta, such as shapes or noodles.
- Add vegetables: You can enrich the soup with carrots or celery, which add sweetness and texture.
- Serving variations: Vegetable soup pairs perfectly with a slice of garlic toast for an even more intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen greens?: Although fresh greens provide the best flavor, you can also use frozen varieties if needed. Make sure to thaw and drain them before use.
2. How do I store the soup to prevent spoilage?: The soup stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. However, it is recommended to add the poached eggs only before serving to avoid them becoming rubbery.
3. Can the soup be made vegetarian?: Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add more vegetables for a rich flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is packed with vitamins and minerals from the greens. Sorrel is an excellent source of vitamin C, while parsley and dill are rich in antioxidants. The egg adds quality protein, and the olive oil contributes healthy fats that are good for the heart.

In conclusion, vegetable soup is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of flavors and colors on the plate. It is a simple yet versatile dish that you can adapt to personal preferences. Experiment with various combinations of greens and vegetables, and each serving will be a new culinary discovery! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 ml chicken soup, 1 tablespoon risoni pasta, 1 bunch of sorrel, 1 bunch of parsley, 1/2 bunch of dill, 1 egg yolk, 1-2 tablespoons of oil, salt and pepper, 2 eggs, 1 tablespoon of vinegar