This creamy vegetable soup, made with zucchini, carrot, potatoes, and bell pepper, is both hearty and nutritious. Paired with herb toasts, it’s the perfect meal for a cozy day. With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, creamy soup ready in under an hour. Great for vegetarians and easily adaptable, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
- 1 onion, chopped
- Olive oil, for frying
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 zucchini, diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- Water, enough to cover vegetables
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 100 ml cream (20% fat)
- For the Herb Toasts:
- 3 slices of bread
- 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 carrot and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the red bell pepper and zucchini and continue to sauté, mixing well.
- Add Potatoes and Simmer:
- Add diced potatoes to the pot. Fill with water to cover the vegetables. Bring to a boil, then cover and cook for 15 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- Prepare Herb Toasts:
- While the soup simmers, place bread slices on a baking sheet. Brush each with olive oil, and season with salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy. Set aside.
- Finish the Soup:
- Add minced garlic, dill, and parsley to the soup. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender. Return to stove, add cream, and heat until it just begins to boil.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Pour the creamy soup into bowls, garnish with extra parsley if desired, and serve with herb toasts.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Add croutons or garlic bread for added crunch.
- Drizzle with extra olive oil or a dash of chili flakes.
- Enjoy with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Cooking Tips
- Adjust Consistency: Add more water or broth for a thinner soup, or reduce it for a thicker texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley add brightness; dried can be used but in smaller quantities.
- Cream Substitute: For a lighter option, substitute cream with milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Add Spice: For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or cumin to the vegetables.
- Blend Carefully: Let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splatters.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in fiber from a variety of vegetables.
- High in vitamins A, C, and potassium from carrots, zucchini, and potatoes.
- Contains antioxidants from red pepper and garlic.
- Provides a small amount of protein from cream.
- Low in saturated fat, making it heart-friendly.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly
- Gluten-Free (without the herb toasts)
- Contains Dairy (can be adapted for dairy-free diets)
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Herb Toasts: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with vegetables and natural flavors.
- Quick and Easy: Simple steps with everyday ingredients.
- Great for Any Season: Enjoy it warm in winter or as a light soup in spring.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spices and toppings to your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: A creamy texture that kids will enjoy without chunky vegetables.
Conclusion
This Creamy Vegetable Soup is a wonderful blend of fresh, wholesome ingredients. Its smooth, velvety texture and subtle seasoning make it a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. With customizable toppings like herb toasts, this soup is perfect for a comforting family meal or a light appetizer. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables, and we’re confident it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the cream with coconut milk or another plant-based cream. - Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Broccoli, cauliflower, or even spinach would work well in this soup. - How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat. - Can I make this in advance?
Yes, this soup reheats well and can be made a day in advance. - What if I don’t have a blender?
You can mash the vegetables for a chunkier texture, or use a food processor in small batches.