Two summers back, I embarked on a new Sunday ritual: dedicating around 30 minutes to assemble a salad bar in my fridge, a nod to David Burtka for the ingenious concept. The drill involves prepping a couple of lettuce heads, storing them in a sealable bag with paper towels to absorb excess moisture, and shredding beets, carrots, and radishes using my trusty food processor. To top it off, I whip up a fresh batch of homemade dressing, often opting for the crowd-pleasing Lemon-Garlic Vinaigrette. This routine has streamlined our lunchtime salad preparation and significantly upped our veggie consumption. As the temperature drops and cravings for warmth kick in, the transition from salad spinner to soup pot becomes inevitable. Thus, Soup Sunday was born in our household.
While we may not be trailblazers in this culinary practice, the benefits are undeniable. Each Sunday afternoon, a hearty pot of soup is lovingly crafted, ensuring there’s plenty to go around for multiple meals throughout the week. Whether enjoyed immediately or stashed in the freezer for busier days ahead, the convenience and nourishment it provides are unmatched. Personally, I often turn to EatingWell recipes for Soup Sunday, drawing from my extensive experience in the EatingWell Test Kitchen. These recipes, rich in vegetables and legumes, serve as a satisfying counterpart to our summer salad tradition, offering a wholesome midday boost.
When seeking input on which soup to prepare, my daughter consistently requests the One-Pot Lentil & Vegetable Soup with Parmesan, a family favorite that never loses its appeal despite frequent appearances on our table. In moments of culinary spontaneity, I turn to a cherished recipe from my great-aunt’s repertoire – Adas bis-Silq (Lentil & Chard Soup) – a simple yet flavorsome creation born from just four pantry staples. This weekend, the indulgent Aromatic Chicken & Rice Soup with Fried Garlic Oil is set to grace our dining table, following rave reviews from our recipe tester.
The essence of Soup Sunday may not resonate with everyone, but for those with a bit of leisure time on the weekends, the act of simmering a large pot of soup can be transformative. The satisfaction derived from this tradition is not only immediate but has the potential to evolve into a cherished routine of your own.
