Salad soup

Salad soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and freshness, that combines simple ingredients in a delicious way. This soup is perfect for warm days when we want something refreshing and nourishing. Cooking this soup is simple, and the final result will surely delight you.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 2 heads of lettuce
- 1 bunch of green onions (or more, to taste)
- 1 carrot
- 1 jar of yogurt or buttermilk (optional)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Borscht to taste (approximately 300 ml)
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh green lovage (for serving)

History of salad soup
Salad soup has deep roots in culinary tradition, being an ingenious way to use fresh vegetables and create a light, nutrient-rich dish. This recipe has been passed down through generations, being a popular choice especially in the warm season when vegetables are abundant. It reflects the simplicity and beauty of home cooking.

Step by step to a perfect soup

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning the lettuce, carrot, and green onions. Wash them well under cold running water to remove impurities. Choose fresh lettuce with green, crispy leaves to make the soup more flavorful.

2. Chopping the vegetables:
- Cut the lettuce into thin strips (fideluță) so it easily integrates into the soup.
- Grate the carrot on a fine grater – this will help release the natural sweetness of the carrot into the soup.
- Cut the onion into small rings, making sure to keep a few stalks for frying.

3. Boiling the soup:
In a larger pot, add the chopped lettuce, grated carrot, and onion. Pour in water until the ingredients are covered. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. The soup will acquire a wonderful aroma as the vegetables soften.

4. Adding aromatic ingredients:
Once the vegetables have boiled (about 10-15 minutes), add the tomato paste and borscht to taste. Start with a smaller amount of borscht and adjust according to preference. Taste and add salt, also to taste.

5. Frying the onion:
In a small pan, add the two stalks of onion you kept and two tablespoons of oil. Fry the onion over low heat until it becomes soft and slightly golden, then add it to the soup. This step will enhance the soup's aroma.

6. Adding the eggs:
Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat them well. When the soup is almost ready, gradually add the beaten eggs while constantly stirring with a fork to prevent clumping. This will give the soup a creamy and rich texture.

7. Finalizing the dish:
Once you have added the eggs, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped green lovage. This will add a fresh aroma and a note of freshness.

Serving
Salad soup is served warm, with a spoonful of yogurt or buttermilk on top for a refreshing contrast. You can also add some croutons for extra texture.

Practical tips
- Vegetarian option: If you prefer an egg-free version, you can omit this ingredient and add more vegetables.
- Additions: You can experiment with adding vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for an even richer flavor.
- Sour soup: If you like a more sour soup, you can add lemon juice or other types of vinegar.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of soup contains approximately 150 calories and is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. It is an excellent choice for a light and healthy lunch.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of lettuce?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of lettuce, but make sure to choose the more tender varieties for a better taste.

2. How long can I keep the soup?
Salad soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible to benefit from the freshness of the ingredients.

3. What goes well with salad soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a slice of homemade bread. Also, a cold lemonade or herbal tea are excellent drink choices.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to prepare this delicious salad soup! Enjoy every step of the cooking process and the fresh aroma that will fill your kitchen!

 Ingredients: 2 pieces of salad, 1 bunch of green onions, 1 carrot, 1 jar of yogurt or buttermilk (optional), 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, salt to taste, 2 tablespoons of oil, and fresh lovage.