This creamy vegetable soup is a comforting and nutritious dish, perfect for any day. Packed with fresh vegetables, enriched with cream, and paired with crispy herb toasts, this recipe delivers a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Olive Oil: For frying
- Carrot: 1, diced
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
- Zucchini: 2, diced
- Potatoes: 2, peeled and diced
- Water: Enough to cover vegetables
- Salt: To taste
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Fresh Dill: Chopped (optional)
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped (optional)
- Cream (20% Fat): 100 ml
For the Herb Toasts:
- Bread: 3 slices
- Olive Oil: For brushing
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped
Directions
- Prepare the Base Vegetables
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened.
- Add the diced carrot and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the diced red bell pepper and zucchini, cooking for another 3 minutes.
- Add Potatoes and Simmer
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Fill with enough water to cover the vegetables.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Prepare Herb Toasts
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place bread slices on a baking sheet. Brush each slice with olive oil and season with salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Finish the Soup
- Add the minced garlic, dill, and parsley to the soup. Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender.
- Return the soup to the stove, stir in the cream, and heat gently until it just begins to boil.
- Serve and Garnish
- Pour the creamy soup into bowls, garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve with the herb toasts on the side.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper for added flavor.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Pair with a side of green salad for a light meal.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan or croutons on top for added texture.
- Serve with freshly baked bread or garlic knots for a hearty accompaniment.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use fresh, in-season vegetables for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more or less water before blending.
- Blend the soup in batches if you don’t have an immersion blender.
- For a vegan version, substitute cream with coconut milk or almond cream.
- Add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a flavor twist.
Nutritional Benefits
- Vegetables: Provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Olive Oil: A source of healthy fats and antioxidants.
- Cream: Adds a creamy texture and richness.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: No (substitute cream for plant-based options)
- Gluten-Free: No (use gluten-free bread for toasts)
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 7g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with vibrant, fresh flavors.
- Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
- A perfect balance of creamy and hearty textures.
- Versatile for various dietary preferences.
- Great for meal prep and freezes well for later use.
Conclusion
This creamy vegetable soup with herb toasts is a delightful and satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any time of the year. With its blend of comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s a dish that brings warmth to the table. Try this recipe today for a nutritious and delicious meal your family will love!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables work well and reduce prep time.
- Can I add protein to this soup? Yes, cooked chicken, tofu, or beans are great additions.
- Can I skip the cream? Yes, the soup will still be delicious without cream, or you can use a dairy-free alternative.
- What other herbs can I use? Thyme, basil, or oregano can be used instead of dill and parsley.
- How do I make it spicier? Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Can I use vegetable stock instead of water? Yes, it enhances the flavor significantly.
- How do I prevent the soup from being too thick? Add more water or stock to adjust the consistency.
- What type of bread works best for herb toasts? Baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough are excellent choices.
- Can I make the soup ahead of time? Yes, it tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.
- How can I thicken the soup? Add a boiled potato or a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water before blending.