Refreshing Spinach and Chilled Soup

This refreshing spinach and chilled soup blends vibrant, fresh ingredients with a savory base to create a delightful dish perfect for warm weather or as a light starter. The combination of boiled eggs, smoked meat, and refreshing vegetables like cucumber and avocado makes it a balanced meal rich in flavor and texture. Spinach adds a nutritious element to the soup, while a splash of vegetable juice enhances its taste. This dish is not only simple to prepare, but it is also incredibly versatile, allowing variations to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. Perfect for a casual lunch, this soup is a tribute to using fresh produce in a delightful and creative way. Garnishing with fresh herbs adds an aromatic touch, making each bowl a sensory experience. The chilled nature of the soup means it can also be a wonderful palate cleanser. It's ideal for summer gatherings or when you crave something healthy yet satisfying. With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, it is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Fresh spinach
• Boiled eggs
• Smoked meat
• Fresh cucumber
• Avocado
• Fresh herbs
• Water
• Vegetable juice

Spices

• Seasonings of your choice

Preparation Time

• 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Chop Ingredients: Begin by cleaning and chopping the fresh spinach leaves. Dice the boiled eggs into quarters, keeping the yolk intact for flavor.
2. Prepare Meats: Cut the smoked meat into thin strips. If it's too strong, you can blanch it briefly in hot water to mellow the flavor.
3. Slice Vegetables: Peel and thinly slice the cucumber. Cube the avocado just before assembling to prevent browning.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the spinach, eggs, smoked meat, cucumber, and avocado.
5. Mix Herbs: Finely chop fresh herbs such as parsley or dill and add to the mixture for an aromatic lift.
6. Season Base: Pour the specified amount of vegetable juice into a pot. Add water to dilute it to a consistency of your choice.
7. Incorporate Ingredients: Transfer the chopped and mixed ingredients into the pot with the liquid base.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Add your selected spices or seasoning to taste. You could keep it simple with salt and pepper or introduce a kick with a pinch of cayenne.
9. Stir and Chill: Thoroughly stir to ensure even distribution of all ingredients. Cover and place in the refrigerator to chill.
10. Optional Add-Ins: If desired, stir in a small amount of mayonnaise for creaminess.
11. Final Touches: Before serving, give the soup one last stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
12. Serve in Style: Pour the chilled soup into bowls. Garnish each with a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
13. Enjoy and Relish: Pair the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side of simple green salad for a complete meal.
14. Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
15. Serving Temperature: Ensure the soup is well-chilled or cool before serving for maximum refreshment.

Tips

• Substitutions: Regular spinach can be substituted with baby spinach for a milder taste.
• Variations: Consider adding diced tomatoes or a splash of lemon juice for an added zest.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint for a unique flavor profile.
• Texture Improvement: To enhance texture, include crunchy elements like toasted seeds or nuts as a topping.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 8g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit smoked meat and add grilled mushrooms or tofu.
• Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños for those who love a bit of heat.
• Vegan Version: Replace boiled eggs with chickpeas and use plant-based mayonnaise if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside a chilled white wine or iced tea.
• Complementary Dish: Pair with light appetizers such as roasted nuts or olives.
• Garnishes: Top with freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Best Places

1. Soup's Delight Café - Offering a cozy setting with the freshest ingredients. Location: 123 Greenway Ave, New York, USA.
2. Taste of Seasons - Known for its innovative spins on classic dishes. Location: 456 Orchard Rd, Singapore, Singapore.
3. Bowl & Soul - A vibrant spot known for its fresh and healthy menu. Location: 789 Market St, San Francisco, USA.
4. Herb & Garden - Celebrated for its wide range of herb-infused creations. Location: 321 Flora St, Toronto, Canada.
5. Spoonful of Style - An elegant bistro offering international twists. Location: 654 Riverway Rd, London, UK.
6. Nature’s Bounty - Lauded for organic and natural ingredients. Location: 987 Mountain Rd, Aspen, USA.
7. Chill & Dine - Offers creative chilled dishes in a modern setting. Location: 1478 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
8. Fresh Harvest Café - Focuses on farm-to-table experiences. Location: 369 Vine St, Melbourne, Australia.
9. Culinary Canvas - Known for its artistic and flavorful presentations. Location: 258 Muse Ln, Paris, France.
10. The Savory Spoon - A favorite for innovative soups and broths. Location: 741 Skyline Dr, Tokyo, Japan.