This hearty Creamy Vegetable Soup is filled with wholesome ingredients like potatoes, cauliflower, carrots, and leeks, creating a comforting and nutritious dish. Topped with crispy croutons and a swirl of cream cheese, this soup offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner, it’s an easy way to enjoy a flavorful, creamy soup packed with vegetables.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
- 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2.5 liters of water
- 1 cauliflower, cut into florets
- A handful of parsley, chopped
- A handful of dill, chopped
- 2 slices of bread, cubed
- Olive oil for cooking and drizzling
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of cream cheese (adjust amount as desired)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
Directions:
- Prepare the Base:
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and leek, sauté until they become translucent. - Add the Chopped Carrot:
Add the chopped carrot to the pot and cook for a few minutes until it begins to soften. - Cook the Potatoes:
Add the cubed potatoes to the pot along with 2.5 liters of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for about 15 minutes. - Add Cauliflower and Herbs:
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the cauliflower florets to the pot.
Stir in chopped parsley and dill. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Prepare Croutons:
While the soup is cooking, prepare the croutons. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed bread and toast it, stirring frequently, until golden and crispy. Set aside. - Final Cooking:
Stir the cream cheese into the soup, allowing it to melt and blend into the soup for a creamy texture.
Cook for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed. - Garnish and Serve:
Serve the soup hot, topped with fresh parsley and dill, croutons, and a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for a more filling meal.
- Pair with a green salad for added freshness.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheese of choice.
- For an extra boost, top with roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, try roasting the vegetables before adding them to the soup.
- You can substitute the cream cheese with sour cream or heavy cream for a richer taste.
- Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for a more flavorful base.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the vegetables.
- Contains healthy fats from olive oil and cream cheese.
- The croutons add a crunchy texture while providing extra energy.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for the croutons.
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Dairy-Free: Can be made dairy-free by using plant-based cream cheese.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 7g
Storage:
- Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just let it cool, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a one-pot meal that’s both simple and delicious.
- The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and creamy texture is incredibly satisfying.
- The homemade croutons add a crunchy element that complements the smooth soup perfectly.
- It’s easily customizable with different vegetables, spices, or toppings.
Conclusion:
This creamy vegetable soup is perfect for cozy nights and family dinners. It’s a nourishing dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. The blend of vegetables and the creamy texture make each spoonful comforting and full of flavor. Give it a try for your next meal, and enjoy the heartwarming goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, you can replace the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut cream. - Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just be sure to cook them thoroughly to ensure they’re soft and flavorful. - Can I make the soup spicier?
Yes, feel free to add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to suit your taste. - How can I thicken the soup?
You can blend part of the soup or add some mashed potatoes to thicken it. - Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or parsnips for variety. - Can I make the soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge and can be made a day or two ahead of time. - How do I store the croutons?
Store croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. - Is this soup gluten-free?
It’s gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free bread for the croutons. - Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s cooled before freezing. - How can I make this soup richer?
You can add more cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.