Welcome to a recipe that’s as nourishing for the body as it is soothing for the soul. Our Healthy Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons is not just a meal; it’s a vibrant medley of flavors that packs a powerful punch of nutrients while aligning perfectly with your health and weight loss goals. Crafted from a variety of fresh vegetables and seasoned to perfection, this soup offers a fulfilling experience with every spoonful.
Total Preparation Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients for the Soup:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow or green pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 200 ml (1 cup) vegetable broth (for initial mixing)
- 1.5 liters (7 cups) vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 100g (1/2 cup) noodles
- Dried parsley
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients for the Croutons:
- 3 slices of bread, cubed
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Red pepper flakes
Directions:
1. Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
2. Thicken the Soup:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 1 cup of vegetable broth, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth.
3. Complete the Soup:
- Add the remaining 1.5 liters of vegetable broth to the pot along with the cubed potatoes, salt, black pepper, dried parsley, and bay leaves.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 7-10 minutes.
4. Make the Croutons:
- While the soup simmers, preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Toss the bread cubes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes.
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Once the noodles are cooked and the potatoes are tender, remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot with a side of crispy homemade croutons.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Onion: Rich in antioxidants and helps boost the immune system.
- Celery: Contains anti-inflammatory properties and is a good source of vitamins.
- Carrot: High in beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
- Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C, which help fight inflammation.
- Garlic: Has potent medicinal properties, including boosting the immune system.
- Potatoes: Provide essential nutrients and fiber.
- Noodles: Add a satisfying texture and provide energy.
- Parsley: Rich in vitamins and has antioxidant benefits.
Tips for Making the Best Vegetable Soup:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will provide the best flavor and nutrients.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: To retain their nutrients and vibrant colors, avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a baguette.
- With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Starter: Serve as an appetizer before a main course.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened too much, add a bit of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
Conclusion:
This Healthy Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s an ideal dish for anyone looking to boost their health and enjoy a comforting meal. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just in need of a healthy meal, this vegetable soup is sure to provide the nourishment and comfort you seek. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this delightful soup!
