This creamy vegetable soup, paired with aromatic croutons, offers a satisfying and comforting meal. The blend of fresh vegetables, rich cream, and flavorful croutons creates a delicious and wholesome dish perfect for any occasion.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total: 45-55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Carrots: 2, diced
- Celery Stalks: 3, chopped
- Potatoes: 2, peeled and diced
- Frozen Peas: 350 grams
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Red Pepper: To taste
- Oregano: To taste
- Nutmeg: A pinch
- Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: A few sprigs
- Vegetable Broth: Enough to cover the vegetables
- Cream: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
For the Aromatic Croutons:
- Bread Slices: 2, cubed
- Olive Oil: As needed
- Salt: To taste
- Dried Garlic: To taste
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: To taste
- Red Pepper: To taste
- Oregano: To taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Soup:
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir well to mix with the onion and garlic.
- Pour in enough vegetable broth to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer.
- Add the frozen peas, a pinch of nutmeg, and sprigs of thyme or rosemary. Season with salt, black pepper, red pepper, and oregano to taste.
- Simmer the soup until all vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, remove from heat and stir in the cream for a richer texture.
- Make the Aromatic Croutons:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, toss the bread cubes with a generous drizzle of olive oil, salt, dried garlic, grated Parmesan, red pepper, and oregano until well coated.
- Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve:
- Ladle the creamy vegetable soup into bowls and top with aromatic croutons.
- Enjoy warm!
Tips:
- Soup Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender before adding the cream.
- Croutons: For extra flavor, you can experiment with different types of cheese or add herbs and spices to the croutons.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Nutritional Benefits:
This soup is rich in vegetables, providing essential vitamins and minerals, while the cream adds a creamy texture. The aromatic croutons offer a crunchy and flavorful contrast, making this a balanced and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this soup with a light salad or sandwich for a complete meal. The croutons also make a great snack on their own!
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Reheat: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
FAQ
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas. Add them to the pot towards the end of cooking to ensure they don’t overcook.
What if I don’t have fresh thyme or rosemary?
You can use dried thyme or rosemary as a substitute. Adjust the quantity to taste, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I make the soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Ensure that the vegetable broth you use is vegetable-based and not made with meat.
Can I add meat to the soup?
Yes, you can add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein. Just stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.
How do I store leftover croutons?
Store leftover croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose their crunch over time but can be refreshed in the oven.
Can I make the croutons ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the croutons ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to use.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
You can use any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as a substitute.
Can I freeze the croutons?
Yes, you can freeze croutons. Store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the freezer. Reheat them in the oven before serving to restore their crispiness.
How do I make the soup spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat to your liking.