Name: Ukrainian Spinach Soup: A Refreshing Summer Comfort Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth (homemade broth enhances taste); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (can be replaced with any cooking oil); 1 medium Onion (substitute with shallots for a milder taste); 1 medium Carrot (grate finely or chop for even cooking); 2 medium Potatoes (can be swapped with cauliflower for a low-carb option); 4 cups Spinach (fresh preferred, but frozen works in a pinch); 1 medium Zucchini (drain any excess moisture before adding); 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (lime juice can be a good substitute); 2 pieces Hard-Boiled Eggs (can be omitted for a vegan version); 2 tablespoons Parsley or Dill (fresh herbs to enhance flavor); Salt and Pepper (essential for balancing flavor, add to taste); 1 cup Sour Cream (swap with cashew cream or dairy-free yogurt for vegan option)

As I stood in my kitchen, the sunlight streaming through the window, a colorful vision came to life: a pot simmering with vibrant greens, destined to become my beloved Ukrainian Spinach Soup. This delightful Green Borscht isn’t just a bowl of soup; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and flavors that transform simple meals into treasured experiences. Packed with nutrient-rich spinach and a zing of lemon, this healthful recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for those busy summer days or cozy dinners year-round. With its appealing taste and nourishing qualities, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, whether served hot alongside crusty bread or chilled as a refreshing summer delight. Curious about how to create this wholesome masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let’s dive in!

Why is Ukrainian Spinach Soup a Must-Try?

Vibrant Colors: This soup is a feast for the eyes, with its stunning green hue from fresh spinach, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a nutritious meal, perfect for those busy summer days when you still want something wholesome.

Comforting and Nourishing: The balance of flavors, from the creamy topping to the tang of lemon, offers a bowl of pure comfort that warms the soul.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize with your favorite greens or add proteins like chicken to make it your own! Check out my tips on substitution ideas.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe appeals to everyone, showcasing the magic of Ukrainian cuisine.

Ukrainian Spinach Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Provides the soup’s base and depth of flavor; homemade broth enhances taste.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables; can be replaced with any cooking oil.
• Onion – A flavor base for the soup; substitute with shallots for a milder taste.

For the Veggies
• Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; grate finely or chop for even cooking.
• Potatoes – Offers heartiness and structure; can be swapped with cauliflower for a low-carb option.
• Spinach – Main green ingredient delivering nutrition and the signature look; fresh is preferred, but frozen works in a pinch.
• Zucchini – Adds bulk and freshness, but drain any excess moisture before adding.

For the Zing
• Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to enhance the overall flavor; lime juice can be a good substitute.

For the Toppings
• Hard-Boiled Eggs – Adds protein and richness; can be omitted for a vegan version.
• Parsley or Dill – Fresh herbs that enhance flavor and add a pop of color.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for balancing flavor, add to taste.
• Sour Cream – Traditional topping for creaminess; swap with cashew cream or dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a comforting bowl, this Ukrainian Spinach Soup ingredients list will guide you in creating a delightful dish that showcases the beauty and nutritious goodness of fresh ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Ukrainian Spinach Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Broth and Potatoes
In a large pot or Dutch oven, pour in your choice of chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the cubed potatoes, which will help build the soup’s heartiness. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the potatoes are cooking, heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced onion and grated carrot, sautéing for about 10 minutes until the onions become translucent and the mixture is aromatic. This step will create a sweet flavor base that enhances your Ukrainian Spinach Soup.

Step 3: Add Vegetables to the Broth
Once the potatoes are tender, carefully add the sautéed onions and carrots to the pot. Next, stir in the diced zucchini and chopped spinach, letting everything bubble together. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and bright green, adding a lush visual element to your soup.

Step 4: Season and Add Acidity
After the spinach has cooked down, season your Ukrainian Spinach Soup with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice, which will add that delightful acidity to balance the flavors. Give the soup a good stir, ensuring all the ingredients are fresh and vibrant.

Step 5: Incorporate Toppings
Before removing the pot from the heat, gently stir in the cubed hard-boiled eggs and some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill. This not only adds protein but also a burst of flavor and a beautiful garnish, elevating your Ukrainian Spinach Soup to the next level.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and finish with a dollop of sour cream on top for creamy richness. Serve immediately while the soup is warm, alongside slices of crusty bread for a comforting and fulfilling meal that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness.

Expert Tips for Ukrainian Spinach Soup

Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh spinach for the best flavor and nutrition in your Ukrainian Spinach Soup; frozen spinach can dilute the freshness.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and carrots; this step enhances their sweetness, creating a richer broth.
Customize Wisely: If substituting ingredients, remember that certain vegetables, like zucchini, can release water; drain excess moisture to prevent a watery soup.
Perfect Egg Cooking: For hard-boiled eggs, boil for exactly 10 minutes then cool them in cold water for easier peeling; perfectly cooked eggs elevate your soup.
Season Gradually: Always taste your soup before serving; season with salt and pepper gradually to achieve the perfect balance of flavors in your Ukrainian Spinach Soup.

Storage Tips for Ukrainian Spinach Soup

Fridge: Store your Ukrainian Spinach Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the soup (without eggs) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to restore its creamy texture.

Cooling Tips: Let the soup cool completely before placing it in the fridge or freezer to avoid condensation, which can affect the soup’s quality.

Ukrainian Spinach Soup: Customization Ideas

Get creative with your Ukrainian Spinach Soup and tailor it to match your personal taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream for cashew cream or coconut yogurt for a vegan alternative that keeps the richness.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley or dill for a unique flavor twist.
Protein Boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked beans for an extra protein kick, making it heartier and more filling.
Add Some Heat: Incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a zing that energizes the soup.
Veggie Variations: Toss in other favorite vegetables, such as kale, peas, or bell peppers, to diversify the textures and flavors, making each bowl a delightful surprise!
Garnish Options: Don’t just stop at hard-boiled eggs; crispy bacon bits or croutons can add an exciting crunch and savory depth.
Seasonal Twists: In autumn, consider adding pumpkin or butternut squash to the mix for a cozy, seasonal adaptation of this classic dish.

If you’re looking for more ways to make this soup your own, feel free to explore some substitution ideas or dive into additional variations that celebrate the spirit of Ukrainian cuisine!

What to Serve with Ukrainian Spinach Soup

A comforting bowl of vibrant green soup deserves equally delightful companions to create a memorable meal experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm loaf adds heartiness and is an essential comfort food pairing.
Savory Pumpkin Bread: The slight sweetness of pumpkin complements the soup’s tangy notes while enhancing its autumnal charm.
Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens adds a crunchy texture and brightness, balancing the soup’s creamy elements.
Pickled Cucumbers: Their tangy crunch brings a wonderful contrast, awakening the palate and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Hard-Crusted Breadsticks: Light and crispy, they provide a delightful textural contrast to the smooth soup.
Herbed Quinoa: A nutritious side that blends well with the flavors of the soup, packing additional protein and fiber.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc offers refreshing acidity, making every bite of the soup more vibrant.
Lemon Sorbet: A light, citrusy dessert that cleanses the palate and echoes the bright flavors of lemon in the soup.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Adding a succulent protein option pairs well with the soup’s fresh flavors, enhancing your meal’s heartiness.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Ukrainian Spinach Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop and sauté the onions, carrots, and zucchini up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup base can also be made a day in advance; simply refrigerate it after cooking and before adding fresh spinach, lemon juice, and hard-boiled eggs. On the day you plan to serve it, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop, stir in the spinach and lemon juice just before serving, ensuring that every bowl is just as fresh and vibrant as when first cooked. By prepping ahead, you achieve deliciously quick meals with minimal effort!

Ukrainian Spinach Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of spinach should I use?
Absolutely, fresh spinach is preferred for the best flavor and texture in your Ukrainian Spinach Soup. However, if fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to prevent excess moisture in your soup.

How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
You can store your Ukrainian Spinach Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to maintain its quality!

Can I freeze Ukrainian Spinach Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months! However, it’s best to freeze it without the hard-boiled eggs. To do this, let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

What should I do if my soup comes out too watery?
If your Ukrainian Spinach Soup ends up too watery, don’t worry! You can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, you can blend in a small amount of cooked potato or an extra grated carrot to help thicken the consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This soup is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the hard-boiled eggs and using dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream instead of sour cream. Always check ingredients for allergies, especially when using ready-made broth or sources that may contain dairy or gluten.