Healthy Borscht (Light + Gut-Friendly)

Serves: 4
Time: ~45 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 medium beets, peeled & grated

• 2 carrots, grated

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 zucchini, chopped (optional but adds lightness)

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• Juice of ½ lemon

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• Black pepper

• Fresh dill (important for flavor + digestion)

• Optional: shredded cabbage (½ cup for extra fiber)

Instructions:

1. Sauté base:
   Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onion + garlic, cook until soft.

2. Build flavor:
   Add carrots + beets, sauté 5–7 mins (this deepens flavor).

3. Simmer:
   Add broth + zucchini (+ cabbage if using).
   Bring to a boil, then simmer 20–25 mins until tender.

4. Brighten it:
   Stir in apple cider vinegar + lemon juice (this is key for that classic tang + gut support).

5. Finish:
   Season with salt, pepper, and lots of fresh dill.