This hearty vegetable soup is a perfect comfort meal, filled with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Topped with crispy homemade croutons, it’s both nutritious and satisfying, ideal for any season.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 onion
- Olive oil
- 2 leeks
- 2 stalks of celery
- 1 carrot
- 1 red pepper
- 1 zucchini
- 2 potatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 chili pepper
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Thyme
- 1 liter vegetable broth
- Parsley
- 3 slices of bread
- Dried garlic
- Red pepper
- Oregano
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Chop the onion and sauté in olive oil over medium heat.
- Chop the leeks, celery, carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes into dice-sized pieces. Add to the pot and mix well.
- Add Flavor:
- Mince the garlic and chili pepper, then add to the pot along with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Cover with a lid and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Soup:
- Add the vegetable broth and let cook for 15 minutes.
- Chop the parsley and set aside.
- Make the Croutons:
- For the croutons, cut the bread into cubes and toss with olive oil, salt, dried garlic, red pepper, and oregano.
- Bake in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes.
- Finish and Serve:
- Add the chopped parsley to the soup and stir.
- Serve the soup with the aromatic croutons on top.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure vegetables are chopped uniformly to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of chili pepper based on your spice preference.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
Nutritional Benefits
- Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Olive Oil: Healthy fats that support heart health.
- Garlic and Chili Pepper: Contain antioxidants and boost the immune system.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No (substitute bread for gluten-free options if needed)
- Dairy-Free: Yes
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup without croutons for up to 3 months. Reheat and add fresh croutons before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious: Packed with a variety of vegetables.
- Comforting: Warm and hearty, perfect for any time of the year.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and ingredients make it accessible for any cook.
Conclusion
This vegetable soup with aromatic croutons is not only delicious but also a nutritious meal option. It’s easy to prepare and customize to your liking, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors and warmth it brings to your table!
Enjoy your cooking! 😊
