Description
This Green Olive Soup is a bold, savory, and slightly tangy dish that’s unexpectedly comforting. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this soup combines briny green olives with onions, garlic, herbs, and creamy potatoes to create a unique bowl of warmth and depth. It’s the kind of soup that surprises you—simple to make, yet rich in taste with a perfect balance of salty, creamy, and earthy notes.
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Ingredients
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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1 celery stalk, chopped
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1 small carrot, chopped
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp dried oregano
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¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth
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¾ cup green olives, pitted and sliced (preferably Manzanilla or Castelvetrano)
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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¼ cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
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½ cup cooked white beans or chickpeas for protein
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1 cup chopped spinach or kale added at the end
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1 tbsp capers for extra briny flavor
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base
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In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add diced onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
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Add minced garlic, thyme, oregano, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute.
Step 2: Add Potatoes & Broth
4. Add diced potatoes to the pot. Stir to coat in the herbs and aromatics.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
6. Lower the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Add Olives & Lemon
7. Stir in the sliced green olives and lemon juice.
8. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
9. If desired, stir in cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
Step 4: Blend or Leave Chunky
10. For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to blend part or all of the soup.
11. Or, leave it chunky for more texture and rustic appeal.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
12. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley.
13. Serve with crusty bread or pita on the side.
Notes
Choose Quality Olives – Use good green olives packed in brine for bold flavor.
Don’t Skip the Lemon – It balances the saltiness and brightens the soup.
Blend to Your Preference – Full blend for creamy, partial for texture.
Add Beans for Heartiness – Great plant-based protein and thickness.
Serve Warm – This soup is best enjoyed hot, fresh, and aromatic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Mediterranean – Unique Comfort Food