Get ready to warm up with a bowl of comfort! Greek cuisine has a rich tradition of hearty and delicious soups that are perfect for any time of year. From creamy egg-based soups to flavorful bean and vegetable stews, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 Hearty Greek Soup Recipes.
Whether you’re looking for a simple and satisfying lunch or a filling dinner option, these recipes have got you covered. And the best part? They’re all made with ingredients that are readily available in your local grocery store, so you don’t need to venture far to find what you need. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most popular Greek soups and share our favorite recipes for each.
From classic favorites like Avgolemono Soup and Fasolada (Greek White Bean Soup) to more unique options like Prassosoupa (Leek Soup) and Patatosoupa (Potato Soup), there’s something for everyone in this collection. So grab a spoon, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of Greek soups!
Avgolemono Soup
This classic Greek soup is a comforting and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy lemon-garlic broth and tender chicken, Avgolemono Soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons white rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from pot and shred into bite-sized pieces.
4. Stir in eggs and rice; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until eggs are cooked and soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Fasolada (Greek White Bean Soup)
Fasolada is a comforting and flavorful soup that’s deeply rooted in Greek cuisine. This simple yet satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side to your favorite Greek dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy), soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the soaked and drained white beans, vegetable broth, and oregano to the pot.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Revithia (Chickpea Soup)
A comforting and nutritious soup from the Middle East, Revithia is a flavorful blend of chickpeas, onions, garlic, and aromatic spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, paprika, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the chickpeas, vegetable broth, and chopped parsley or cilantro (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fakes (Lentil Soup)
Fakes is a traditional Irish lentil soup that’s easy to make and packed with protein and fiber. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly day or as a nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Trahana Soup
A traditional Armenian soup, Trahana Soup is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of beef or lamb bones (or combination)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of water
– 1/2 cup of Trahana pasta
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast the bones in the oven for 30 minutes, or until they are nicely browned.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in oil until softened.
4. Add the roasted bones, water, Trahana pasta, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Kotosoupa (Greek Chicken Soup)
This classic Greek chicken soup recipe is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its rich flavors and soothing texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes and oregano; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Continue simmering for an additional 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Psarosoupa (Greek Fish Soup)
A hearty and comforting Greek fish soup that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into large chunks
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it starts to soften.
5. Add the fish chunks and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned.
6. Pour in the canned tomatoes and add the water.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the fish is cooked through.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Magiritsa (Easter Lamb Soup)
This traditional Greek soup is a staple of Easter Sunday celebrations. Magiritsa is a hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb neck or shanks, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the lamb, onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the lamb is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the lamb is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Patsas (Tripe Soup)
This traditional Greek soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavor and tender tripe, Patsas is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef tripe, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrot, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the tripe and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the tripe is tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Spanakorizo (Spinach and Rice Soup)
A hearty and comforting Greek soup that combines the nutrients of spinach with the simplicity of cooked rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, vegetable broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Soup with Orzo
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the richness of tomato soup with the nutty goodness of orzo. Perfect for a chilly evening, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1/4 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Stir the cooked orzo into the tomato soup mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lahanodolmades Soup (Stuffed Cabbage Soup)
This traditional Greek soup is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Lahanodolmades, or stuffed cabbage rolls, are simmered in a rich vegetable broth with aromatic spices to create a comforting and satisfying soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water until soft, then remove from heat and let cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice, salt, and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf.
5. Roll up the leaves to form stuffed cabbage rolls (lahanodolmades).
6. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the rolled cabbage and cook until browned on all sides.
7. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried oregano. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kreatosoupa (Greek Meat Soup)
A hearty and flavorful Greek soup made with tender beef, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef shin or brisket, cut into 2.5cm pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Add beef, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until meat is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Gemista Soup (Stuffed Pepper and Tomato Soup)
Gemista soup is a traditional Greek recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the tanginess of tomatoes. This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the soup mixture and cover with foil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Fava Soup (Yellow Split Pea Soup)
This comforting and nutritious soup is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. Fava beans are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a great option for a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow split peas
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and pick out any debris.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with lemon juice, parsley, or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Prassosoupa (Leek Soup)
A classic Greek soup made with tender leeks, aromatic vegetables, and a hint of garlic. This hearty soup is perfect for a comforting meal or as a starter.
Ingredients:
– 4 large leeks, cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped leeks, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reached desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kolokithosoupa (Zucchini Soup)
A refreshing and light Greek-inspired soup perfect for a warm evening or as a starter for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large zucchinis, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped zucchinis, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. Stir in the Greek yogurt.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Patatosoupa (Potato Soup)
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Patatosoupa (Potato Soup), a traditional Greek dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a staple in many Greek households, and its creamy texture and flavorful spices are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley, grated cheddar cheese, or croutons for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree soup until smooth.
4. Stir in milk or heavy cream; adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Manestra (Orzo and Tomato Soup)
Warm up with this comforting Greek-inspired soup, made with orzo pasta, fresh tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add tomatoes, broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked orzo and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kakavia (Greek Fisherman’s Soup)
A hearty and flavorful soup originating from the Greek fishing villages, Kakavia is a comforting blend of fish, vegetables, and aromatics. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 stalks of celery, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups of water
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the fish pieces and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to flake apart.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and water. Stir in the dried oregano.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these deliciously hearty Greek soup recipes! From classic favorites like Avgolemono and Fasolada to creative twists like Tomato Soup with Orzo and Gemista (stuffed pepper and tomato), there’s something for everyone. These comforting soups are perfect for a cold winter day or anytime you need a warm, satisfying meal. With ingredients like chickpeas, lentils, and vegetables, these recipes are not only tasty but also nutritious. So go ahead, try one out, and let the warm, comforting flavors of Greece fill your heart and belly!
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