If you’re looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish to enjoy all summer long, beet soup is the perfect choice. This vibrant, delicious soup is not only packed with flavor but also loaded with nutrients that are great for your health. Whether you serve it hot or chilled, beet soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Here’s how to make this delightful dish that you’ll want to cook at least once a week.
Why Beet Soup?
Beets are a powerhouse of nutrition. They’re rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. Beets are also high in dietary fiber and antioxidants, making them a great choice for maintaining good health. This beet soup recipe is light, flavorful, and perfect for the warm months of summer.
Ingredients
To make this delicious beet soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized beets, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beets:
- Start by peeling and dicing the beets into small, even pieces. This will help them cook more quickly and evenly.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Beets:
- Add the diced beets to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the beets to soften slightly.
4. Add the Broth:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the beets are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the beets are tender.
5. Blend the Soup:
- Once the beets are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
6. Season and Serve:
- Stir in the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired for extra creaminess.
Enjoying Beet Soup
This beet soup is incredibly versatile. Serve it hot for a comforting meal or chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing summer dish. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad.
Conclusion
Beet soup is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that you’ll love making and eating all summer long. Its vibrant color and rich flavor make it a standout dish, while its health benefits ensure you’re nourishing your body with every spoonful. Try this recipe, and you’ll find yourself cooking it at least once a week, just like I do. Enjoy your summer with a bowl of this delightful beet soup!
