Eat Your Greens Soup

We participate in a CSA, which stands for Community Supported Agriculture, and at this time of year it means that we are getting plenty of greens.  Typically we use greens, like spinach, in a stir-fry or in salads, and even in burgers and in green smoothies.  Greens are so healthy and good for you in terms of nutrition.  But what to do with them other than the smoothies, burgers, salads and stir-frys?  What else are you doing with your organic greens?  This soup is gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, peanut free, tree nut free, which meets our allergy and celiac needs.  As I have noted in the recipe below if you are allergic to tomatoes or not eating them for other reasons, you could omit them and add broth in place of the water for more flavor and increase the spices, possibly even adding some additional ones.

This recipe I came up with in an effort, quite simply, to use up an abundance of Swiss Chard from our organic farmer.  Was it a hit with my kids?  In a word - YES!!!!!!  The two that tried it (one was under the weather) each gave it a 9 out of 10, meaning that they thought it was excellent.  And they even gave me coaching - to make it a 10, next time I needed to puree the greens a bit more!  I am quite excited and I can't wait to get feedback from you!!  So try it and let me know your opinion and the variations you come up with. 

Swiss Chard Soup

A soup that my two sons, ages 10 and 12, actually enjoyed and would eat again!  It has an unusual color with the greens and the tomato.  If you are allergic to tomatoes, you would obviously eliminate them.  I would use broth in place of the water and just add some additional spices for flavor.
1 medium onion, chopped

1 Tablespoon of acceptable oil
8 ounces of broth
15 ounces of tomato sauce
24 ounces of water
Large Bunch of Swiss Chard (or Spinach or other greens that are not bitter)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Dash of crushed rosemary
Dash of sugar
Salt and Pepper to Taste
Saute the onion in the old until caramelized and soft.  Add water, tomato sauce and Swiss Chard.  Cook over medium heat until the Swiss Chard is cooked and soft.  Add all remaining ingredients.  Allow to cool slightly and then puree in a blender.  I left small pieces of greens in this soup and my children would like it more pureed the next time.  Overall, this is an excellent way to use up your greens and have a nutritious appetizer or main meal. 

Now, if I could just come up with a way to use greens in a dessert!!!  Just kidding.  Enjoy!
Love,
Lisa

Comments

[The Mother]

I'm going to have to try this. I have just discovered our local farmer's market, and I'm having a blast. I need new veggie recipes, pronto! This one's a great start.