This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a nutritious and comforting dish perfect for any season. Made with a variety of vegetables and a flavorful broth, it’s both wholesome and delicious. Pair it with homemade garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 2 red onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 leek, sliced
- 2 sticks of celery, chopped
- 3 potatoes, diced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable stock
- 150 g frozen peas
- Fresh thyme for garnish
For the Garlic Bread:
- 1 baguette
- Olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Red pepper flakes
- Italian herbs
Directions:
For the Soup:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped red onions, minced garlic, sliced leek, and chopped celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the diced potatoes and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix well.
- Cook the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring the vegetables are covered. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the frozen peas to the soup and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to puree about 50% of the soup until smooth, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Finish the Soup:
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
For the Garlic Bread:
- Prepare the Baguette:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Slice the baguette and place the slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with minced garlic, salt, red pepper flakes, and Italian herbs.
- Bake the Bread:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy.
Serve:
- Serve the hot vegetable soup in bowls, garnished with fresh thyme.
- Enjoy with the freshly baked garlic bread on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the soup for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure to wash the leek thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand.
- Adjust the consistency of the soup by blending more or less of it according to your preference.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from a variety of vegetables.
- Low in fat and high in fiber, making it a healthy meal choice.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian and can be made vegan by using vegan butter or omitting the butter for the garlic bread.
Storage:
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This soup is easy to make and perfect for a comforting meal.
- The combination of vegetables and fresh herbs provides a rich and flavorful taste.
- Homemade garlic bread adds a delicious and crispy accompaniment.
Conclusion:
Enjoy this delicious and nutritious Hearty Vegetable Soup with Garlic Bread for a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for any time of the year and is sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!
