This Creamy Vegetable Soup with Aromatic Croutons is a nourishing and flavorful dish, perfect for any time of year. With a base of celery, potatoes, zucchini, and broccoli, this soup is packed with nutrients, while the homemade croutons add a satisfying crunch and extra flavor. It’s a comforting meal that’s simple to make and full of wholesome goodness.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
Cuisine
This soup is a blend of fresh, seasonal vegetables, creating a comforting and healthy dish. The aromatic croutons are inspired by Italian flavors, with herbs, garlic, and a touch of heat to balance the creamy soup base.
Full List of Ingredients
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, for frying
- Dried garlic, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Italian herbs, to taste
- 1 teaspoon butter
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped celery and minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the vegetables soften slightly.
- Add the diced potatoes, chopped courgette (zucchini), parsley, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
2. Add Broccoli and Peas:
- Add the chopped broccoli and frozen peas to the pot. Stir to combine, cover the pot again, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
3. Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Once blended, check the seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed.
4. Make the Croutons:
- While the soup is simmering, heat olive oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the bread cubes and toss them in the oil to coat.
- Season the croutons with salt, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs. Continue to fry the bread cubes for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve:
- Ladle the creamy vegetable soup into bowls and top with the aromatic croutons. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugars: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This vegetable soup is inspired by traditional hearty soups often found in Mediterranean cuisine, where fresh seasonal vegetables are combined into a simple, nourishing meal. The addition of croutons is a classic way to add texture and flavor, with the crunchy topping balancing the smooth and creamy base.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables like celery, broccoli, and zucchini, this soup provides plenty of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Comforting and Satisfying: The creamy texture and the warmth of the soup make it a perfect meal for chilly days.
- Flavorful Croutons: The homemade croutons add a satisfying crunch, enhanced by the garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this soup is a great option for busy days or a cozy dinner.
Health Benefits
- Packed with Vegetables: The variety of vegetables in this soup (celery, potatoes, zucchini, broccoli, peas) provides a good mix of essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
- Low in Calories: This soup is low in calories yet filling, making it a great choice for those looking for a healthy, low-calorie meal.
- Antioxidants: The parsley, broccoli, and peas provide antioxidants that help fight inflammation and support overall health.
- Good Source of Fiber: The vegetables and peas are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and supports heart health.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair this soup with a light green salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, to complement the richness of the soup.
- Serve with Cheese: For added flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top of the soup before serving.
- Add Protein: Serve the soup with grilled chicken or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a boost of protein.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of vegetable stock or cook the soup for a longer period before blending.
- For Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of cream or coconut milk when blending for a richer texture.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or kale to increase the nutritional content and flavor.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicier kick.
- Vegan Version: Make this soup vegan by omitting the butter and using vegetable broth, along with non-dairy alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk for creaminess.
- Add Beans: For additional protein and fiber, add a can of white beans, such as cannellini or great northern beans, to the soup.
Conclusion
This Creamy Vegetable Soup with Aromatic Croutons is the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. With fresh vegetables, a creamy base, and crispy homemade croutons, it’s a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed any time of year. Whether served as a light meal or a starter, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove before serving.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. After it cools, store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
3. Can I use other types of beans in this soup?
Yes, you can add beans like kidney beans, chickpeas, or lentils for added protein and texture.
4. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas if available. Just add them to the pot with the broccoli and cook for a few minutes.
5. Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to the soup for a heartier version.
6. How do I make the croutons without butter?
You can skip the butter and use olive oil to make the croutons if you want a dairy-free option.
7. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chilies, or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the soup a spicy kick.
8. How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend more of the vegetables or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
9. Can I make this soup without croutons?
Yes, you can serve the soup without croutons if you prefer a lighter version or need to make it gluten-free.
10. How do I store leftover croutons?
Store leftover croutons in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can re-crisp them in the oven before serving.