Green Borscht with Spinach and Potatoes

The Green Borscht with Spinach and Potatoes is a light, nourishing soup inspired by Eastern European tradition. Packed with fresh spinach, creamy potatoes, fragrant dill, and tangy lemon, it delivers flavor and comfort in every spoonful. This version is made vegetarian, featuring hard-boiled eggs and a hint of sour cream for richness.

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a festive springtime starter, this soup is an easy and healthy option that feels both timeless and modern. Its vibrant green color and refreshing taste make it ideal for transitioning into warmer seasons without sacrificing warmth and satisfaction.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 carrot, grated

• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced

• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 2 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• Optional: sour cream for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.

2. Stir in the grated carrot and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

3. Add diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.

4. Add chopped spinach and simmer for another 3–4 minutes until wilted.

5. Stir in chopped eggs and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Remove from heat and stir in fresh dill.

7. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 125 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Discovering Green Borscht: A Bowl Full of Ukrainian Heritage, Flavor, and Wellness

When most people hear the word “borscht,” they immediately think of the deep magenta beet soup so iconic in Eastern European cuisine. But borscht comes in many hues and styles, one of the most beloved being Green Borscht, also known as Zeleniy Borscht in Ukrainian. This vibrant, herbaceous soup is especially popular in the spring and early summer, when fresh greens like spinach or sorrel are in season. It’s not just a delightful vegetarian dish, it’s a celebration of freshness, comfort, and tradition.

In this version of Green Borscht, we use spinach as the star leafy green, pairing it with tender potatoes, fresh dill, and creamy hard-boiled eggs for a simple yet deeply satisfying meal. A light zing of lemon juice balances the rich, savory broth, making each spoonful comforting and revitalizing. Whether you’re new to Ukrainian cuisine or grew up on this soup, it’s a recipe that’s always worth revisiting.

The Cultural Roots of Green Borscht

Green Borscht is a staple in Ukrainian and Russian households, especially during the spring and Lenten seasons. In Ukraine, the soup is commonly made with sorrel, a tangy green herb that gives the soup its characteristic flavor. However, because sorrel can be hard to find in many places, spinach is often used as a widely accessible and equally delicious alternative.

What sets Green Borscht apart is its versatility and the strong connection it has to the rhythms of seasonal cooking. It represents a shift from the heavy, wintertime meals rich in meats and root vegetables to something lighter, brighter, and greener. Traditionally served with sour cream and rye bread, it’s hearty enough to serve as a meal, especially when garnished with chopped hard-boiled eggs and fresh herbs.

Ingredient Spotlight: Why These Ingredients Work

The beauty of Green Borscht lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient has a purpose and contributes to both flavor and nutrition.

Spinach

Spinach is one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat. Rich in iron, vitamin K, vitamin A, folate, and antioxidants, it supports everything from eye health to immune function. In this recipe, it adds earthiness and color without overpowering the other flavors.

Potatoes

Potatoes give the soup body and heartiness, helping to turn what might be a light broth into a satisfying main course. They absorb the flavors of the broth and herbs beautifully, offering a comforting contrast to the leafy greens.

Onion and Carrot

These two form the aromatic base, giving the soup a gentle sweetness and a well-rounded flavor profile. The grated carrot, in particular, brings a touch of natural sugar that plays well with the soup’s tangier notes.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Eggs add protein and richness, making the dish more filling. When chopped and stirred in or used as a garnish, they provide a creamy texture and help balance the acidity from the lemon juice.

Lemon Juice

A dash of lemon at the end of cooking elevates the soup, brightening all the flavors. If you’re looking for a vegan variation, you can use a touch of apple cider vinegar instead for that necessary acidic kick.

Fresh Dill

Dill is often the signature herb in Eastern European cooking, and Green Borscht is no exception. It lends the soup a fresh, grassy flavor and enhances the green theme beautifully.

Nutrition Profile

One serving of Green Borscht (approximately one bowl) is around 125 calories, making it an excellent option for those who want something satisfying but not heavy. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional highlights per serving:

• Calories: 125 kcal

• Protein: ~6g (depending on egg quantity)

• Fat: ~5g

• Carbohydrates: ~15g

• Fiber: ~3g

• Vitamins & Minerals: High in vitamin A, C, K, folate, potassium, and iron

This dish is not only vegetarian-friendly but also naturally gluten-free if you avoid traditional bread pairings. To make it vegan, simply omit the eggs or substitute with a plant-based alternative like silken tofu cubes.

Variations and Adaptations

While this version uses spinach, the beauty of Green Borscht lies in its adaptability. Here are some exciting variations you can try:

1. Sorrel Instead of Spinach

If you can find sorrel, definitely try it. It has a natural tartness that gives the soup an extra tangy depth. You may not need as much lemon juice if you go this route.

2. Add Legumes for Protein

Want a protein boost without using eggs? Try adding cooked lentils or white beans. They pair well with the soup’s flavors and make it even more filling.

3. Use Kale or Swiss Chard

Other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard can be substituted for spinach. Just keep in mind that kale takes a bit longer to cook, so give it a few extra minutes.

4. Add Grains

Turn this into a grain-and-greens soup by adding a scoop of cooked barley, millet, or rice. This makes the soup more substantial and greater for meal prepping.

5. Spicy Kick

If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper while sautéing the onions.

Serving Suggestions

Green Borscht is traditionally served hot, often with a generous spoonful of sour cream and a slice of crusty rye bread or dark sourdough. For a lighter presentation, you can skip the cream and instead drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top with freshly ground black pepper.

This soup is also delicious chilled, especially during warmer weather. Simply refrigerate it and enjoy with a wedge of lemon and fresh herbs.

Pairings:

• A side of cucumber and tomato salad with vinegar dressing

• Pickled vegetables like beets or cabbage

• A simple green salad with vinaigrette

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Green Borscht stores beautifully and is perfect for meal prepping:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat.

• Freezer: Freeze without eggs or sour cream for up to 2 months. Add eggs after reheating for best texture.

Tip: If you’re making a large batch for freezing, consider undercooking the spinach slightly so it retains more texture when reheated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes Green Borscht with Spinach and Potatoes a winner? It’s…

• Simple: Made with everyday ingredients

• Quick: Ready in just over 30 minutes

• Nutritious: Packed with greens, fiber, and plant-based goodness

• Customizable: Easily adaptable for vegan, gluten-free, or higher-protein diets

• Culturally Rich: Brings a taste of Ukrainian comfort food to your kitchen

Whether you’re seeking a soothing soup on a rainy day or a vibrant dish for your spring table, this recipe delivers both flavor and nostalgia in every bite.

Conclusion

Green Borscht with Spinach and Potatoes is more than just a recipe, it’s a wholesome, time-honored dish that honors the power of seasonal produce and traditional cooking. Its delicate balance of flavors, gentle acidity, and rich herbaceous notes make it a standout meal any day of the week. With endless possibilities for customization, it’s no surprise this dish has remained a favorite across generations.

So, grab a pot, gather your greens, and make a batch of Green Borscht that’ll nourish both your body and your soul. Whether you grew up with it or are tasting it for the first time, this soup has a way of making you feel right at home.