This superhealthy, supereasy soup is from Michael Stebner, director of culinary innovation for Sweetgreen, a Washington, DC-based string of restaurants that focuses on healthy and delicious food that’s also good for the planet.
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, cut into 1/2-inch dice
2 garlic cloves, minced
One 28-ounce can whole peeled Italian tomatoes, crushed by hand, juices reserved
2 large beets (1 1/2 pounds), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3/4 teaspoon ground cumin, plus more for serving
1/4 teaspoon cayenne, plus more for seasoning
Sea salt
Whole-milk plain Greek yogurt, for serving
In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, 8 minutes. Add the tomatoes and their juices, the beets, carrots, 3/4 teaspoon of cumin and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne. Season with salt and add enough water to cover the vegetables by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, cover partially and simmer over low heat until the vegetables are very tender, about 1 hour. Remove from the heat and let stand for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Reheat the soup and season with salt, cumin and cayenne. Serve topped with a dollop of yogurt and a pinch of cumin.
