Hearty Vegetable Soup with Aromatic Croutons
This comforting vegetable soup is the perfect blend of flavors and nutrition, making it an ideal dish for any time of year. Packed with wholesome vegetables and topped with crispy, homemade croutons, it’s a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re craving something light yet filling or need a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to hit the spot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients of Hearty Vegetable Soup:
For the Soup :
- 300 g celery, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped
- 35 g parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 liter vegetable stock
- 1 broccoli head, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
For the Aromatic Croutons:
- 3 slices of bread, cut into cubes
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil
- Dried garlic
- Red pepper flakes
- Italian herbs
- 1 teaspoon butter
Directions:
1. Prepare the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and softened.
2. Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the diced potatoes, courgette, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
3. Add Broccoli and Peas:
- Add the chopped broccoli and frozen peas to the pot. Cover and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
4. Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and velvety. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend half the soup and leave the rest as is.
5. Make the Croutons:
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and season with salt, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs. Toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve:
- Ladle the smooth, creamy soup into bowls and top with the aromatic croutons. Enjoy the contrast of the velvety soup and the crunchy croutons!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
- For an extra creamy touch, top with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less vegetable stock to suit your preference.
- Feel free to get creative with the croutons! Swap out the spices and herbs for your favorites.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Packed with Vitamins: This soup is loaded with essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from the variety of vegetables.
- Low in Calories: A perfect light meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian and easily made vegan by using plant-based butter for the croutons.
Storage:
- Soup: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Croutons: Keep the croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknights.
- Nutritious and Filling: The combination of fresh vegetables and crunchy croutons makes this soup a delicious, healthy option for lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
How can I make the soup creamier?
Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk after blending for a richer, creamier texture.
Can I make the croutons in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the croutons ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes beautifully! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just defrost and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What can I use instead of vegetable stock?
You can substitute vegetable stock with water, but using stock enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Can I omit the croutons?
Certainly! The soup is delicious on its own, but the croutons add a nice crunchy texture.
Can I add meat to this soup?
For extra protein, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to the soup.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?
If the soup thickens too much, simply add more vegetable stock or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work just as well and add a vibrant, sweet flavor to the soup.
What other herbs can I use for the croutons?
Basil, oregano, or thyme would be excellent choices to switch up the flavor profile of your croutons.
Conclusion:
This hearty vegetable soup, topped with aromatic croutons, is a go-to recipe for when you want something simple yet flavorful. Packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side, the comforting taste and textures of this soup are sure to make it a family favorite.
