Ingredients

3 large beets
3 cups water ( plus additional to cover beets when boiling )
kosher salt
1 1/2 cups beef stock
16 ounces reduced-fat sour cream
1/2 cup low-fat plain yogurt
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons champagne vinegar
1 1/2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper
1 large seedless cucumber
4 scallions , white and green parts , chopped
2 tablespoons fresh dill , plus extra for serving , chopped
2 carrots , shredded
1 onion , finely diced
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Summer Borscht (Lower Fat) is a light and refreshing soup that's perfect for a hot summer day. It originated in Eastern Europe, where it's traditionally made with beets and served hot or cold. This version is a lower-fat alternative, swapping full-fat sour cream and yogurt for their lighter counterparts while still maintaining the delicious beet flavor. The addition of cucumber, scallions, and carrots bring a fresh, crunchy texture to the soup, making it a satisfying meal on its own or an excellent appetizer for a summertime dinner party.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, combine the beets, 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2.Reduce the heat, cover the pot and simmer until the beets are tender, about 45 minutes.
3.In a separate bowl, combine beef stock, sour cream, yogurt, lemon juice, vinegar and black pepper. Mix well.
4.Peel and grate the cucumber. Add it to the bowl along with scallions, carrots, and diced onion.
5.Once the beets are ready, remove from the pot and let them cool down.
6.Cut the cooked beets into small cubes and set them aside.
7.In the same pot, melt butter and olive oil. Add the beet cubes and sauté for a minute or two.
8.Return the beet stock to the simmer, add the sautéed beets and the ingredients in the separate bowl to the pot.
9.Cook everything until heated through.
10.Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh dill.

PROS

Low fat, contains reduced-fat sour cream and low-fat plain yogurt.
Loaded with vitamins and minerals from beets, carrots, and cucumber.
Perfect for a light summer meal.

CONS

May not be filling enough as a stand-alone meal.
Requires a bit of prep work with peeling, grating, and chopping.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Beets are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as potassium and iron that can help lower blood pressure and improve circulation. Carrots are high in vitamin A, which is essential for healthy eyesight. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content, making them great for hydration and skin health. Reduced-fat sour cream and low-fat plain yogurt are healthier alternatives to full-fat options, helping to reduce fat intake.

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