Ukrainian Green Borscht is a delightful and vibrant soup that celebrates fresh greens and flavors. This dish is perfect for summer meals, offering a light yet satisfying option for lunch or dinner. Its combination of nutritious vegetables and herbs makes it not only delicious but also a healthy choice for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting bowl at home, Ukrainian Green Borscht stands out with its unique taste and colorful presentation.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Broth Base
- Vegetables
- Flavor Enhancers
- Protein and Herbs
- Seasoning
- Serving Suggestion
- How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Step 1: Prepare the Broth
- Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Finish with Flavorings
- Step 5: Serve Hot
- Notes
- How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht
- With Fresh Herbs
- Accompanied by Bread
- Topped with Sour Cream
- As a Meal Prep Option
- Served with Hard-Boiled Eggs
- Accompanied by Pickles
- How to Perfect Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Best Side Dishes for Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Reheating Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Ukrainian Green Borscht?
- How do I customize my Ukrainian Green Borscht?
- Is Ukrainian Green Borscht gluten-free?
- Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht vegetarian?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Ingredients – Packed with spinach, zucchini, and potatoes, this borscht provides essential nutrients.
- Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful soup in under 40 minutes.
- Versatile Dish – Serve it hot or cold; this green borscht adapts to your preferences and is perfect year-round.
- Family-Friendly – A great way to introduce more greens to your family’s diet without sacrificing taste.
- Rich in Flavor – The combination of lemon juice and herbs elevates the soup, making each spoonful refreshing.
Tools and Preparation
To create the best Ukrainian Green Borscht, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Medium non-stick skillet
- Grater
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning ingredients.
- Medium non-stick skillet – Perfect for sautéing vegetables without sticking, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Grater – Useful for quickly preparing ingredients like carrots, saving time on prep work.
Ingredients
Broth Base
- 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated on a large grater
- 3 large potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 zucchini, cubed
Flavor Enhancers
- 3 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoon lemon juice
Protein and Herbs
- 4 eggs, hard-boiled and cubed (See the notes)
- ½ cup parsley or dill, chopped
Seasoning
- Salt, pepper to taste
Serving Suggestion
- Sour cream for serving
How to Make Ukrainian Green Borscht
Step 1: Prepare the Broth
In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 15 minutes until tender.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add minced onion and grated carrot. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
To the pot with potatoes, add the sautéed onion and carrot mixture along with cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Finish with Flavorings
Add lemon juice, cubed hard-boiled eggs, and your choice of chopped parsley or dill. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Remove from heat immediately after cooking. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on top for added richness.
Notes
For the eggs: To cook them perfectly hard-boiled, bring a medium pot of water to a boil before adding eggs. Cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes. Afterward, drain the water and cool them down by filling the pot with cold water before chopping when they are handleable again.
How to Serve Ukrainian Green Borscht
Ukrainian Green Borscht is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Dill or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for an aromatic flavor boost.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty Rye Bread: A slice of hearty rye bread pairs perfectly with the soup, adding texture and flavor.
Topped with Sour Cream
- Sour Cream Dollop: A spoonful of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the soup’s flavors.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Refrigerate for Later: This borscht can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners.
Served with Hard-Boiled Eggs
- Extra Egg Garnish: Add additional cubed hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and richness.
Accompanied by Pickles
- Pickled Vegetables: Serve alongside pickles for a tangy contrast to the soup’s freshness.

How to Perfect Ukrainian Green Borscht
To make the best Ukrainian Green Borscht, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Greens: Fresh spinach or other greens enhance flavor and nutrition.
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Adjust the Broth: Experiment with chicken or vegetable broth based on your dietary preference.
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Season Gradually: Taste as you go to ensure you achieve the desired seasoning balance.
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Cook Eggs Properly: Follow the notes for perfectly cooked hard-boiled eggs, as they add texture to the soup.
Best Side Dishes for Ukrainian Green Borscht
Pairing side dishes with your Ukrainian Green Borscht can create a complete meal. Here are some great options.
- Pampushky: Soft garlic bread rolls perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Salad Olivier: A classic Russian salad that complements the borscht well.
- Potato Pancakes (Deruny): Crispy pancakes that add a hearty element to your meal.
- Cabbage Rolls (Holodets): Savory rolls filled with meat and rice, providing a filling accompaniment.
- Beet Salad: A tangy beet salad enhances the vibrant flavors of green borscht.
- Syrniki: Sweet cheese pancakes that offer a delightful contrast to savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help you create the perfect Ukrainian Green Borscht. Here are some tips to ensure success.
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Skipping the broth quality: Using low-quality broth can diminish the flavor of your soup. Always opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth for the best results.
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Overcooking vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can lose their nutrients and texture. Cook your veggies just until tender to maintain their freshness and flavor.
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Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can lead to bland soup. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for a well-balanced flavor.
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Not using fresh greens: Dried greens cannot replace the bright taste of fresh ones. Use fresh spinach or herbs for that authentic Ukrainian Green Borscht experience.
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Ignoring cooking times: Each ingredient has its ideal cooking time. Pay attention to when you add them to ensure everything is cooked perfectly without becoming mushy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh and prevent odors from affecting its taste.
Freezing Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place in an oven-safe dish, covering with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ukrainian Green Borscht?
Ukrainian Green Borscht is a refreshing soup made with greens like spinach, served hot or cold. It’s a staple in Ukrainian cuisine, especially during summer.
How do I customize my Ukrainian Green Borscht?
You can add other vegetables such as beets or peas for extra flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different herbs like dill or cilantro to enhance the taste.
Is Ukrainian Green Borscht gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat products, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make Ukrainian Green Borscht vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and skip the hard-boiled eggs if desired for a fully vegetarian dish.
Final Thoughts
Ukrainian Green Borscht is not only delicious but also packed with healthy ingredients that make it perfect for lunch or dinner. Its vibrant flavors and customizable options allow you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try today!
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Ukrainian Green Borscht
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Ukrainian Green Borscht is a vibrant, refreshing soup that showcases the best of summer’s greens. This delightful dish combines fresh spinach, zucchini, and potatoes in a flavorful broth, making it a perfect choice for light lunches or dinners. With its beautiful presentation and rich taste, this borscht not only nourishes the body but also pleases the palate. Whether served hot or cold, it’s an adaptable recipe that can impress guests or provide comfort at home. Enjoy this healthy and colorful soup as part of your summer meals.
Ingredients
- 64 oz chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 3 large potatoes, cubed
- 4 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 zucchini, cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, cubed
- ½ cup parsley or dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add cubed potatoes and cook on medium-low heat for about 15 minutes until tender.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Sauté minced onion and grated carrot for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with potatoes along with cubed zucchini and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in lemon juice, cubed hard-boiled eggs, and chopped herbs before removing from heat.
- Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Boiling/Sautéing
- Cuisine: Ukrainian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 180mg