Indulge in a guilt-free bowl of Creamy Veggie Slimming Soup with Homemade Croutons! Packed with wholesome vegetables and a touch of creaminess, this soup is not only delicious but also designed to support your weight loss journey. It’s a comforting yet light dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Slimming Soup:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 400 grams celery, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 courgettes (zucchini), sliced
- 600 grams broccoli, chopped
- 1 liter vegetable broth
- 200 ml fat-free cream
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Croutons:
- 4 slices of bread, cut into cubes
- 30 ml olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Italian herbs, to taste
- Dried garlic, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Slimming Soup:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the chopped celery and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add the sliced carrots, courgettes, and chopped broccoli to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, add the fat-free cream to the soup. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Croutons:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, red pepper flakes, Italian herbs, and dried garlic until evenly coated.
- Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a light lunch or dinner option alongside a crisp green salad.
- Pair it with a side of whole-grain bread for a more filling meal.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- To make the soup even lighter, substitute the fat-free cream with low-fat milk or coconut milk.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in fiber from vegetables like celery, carrots, zucchini, and broccoli.
- Provides essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
- The fat-free cream adds creaminess without the extra calories.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made vegan by using plant-based cream or omitting the cream entirely.
Storage:
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Croutons can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for several days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a satisfying and flavorful soup that’s perfect for weight management.
- The homemade croutons add a delightful crunch and texture.
- This recipe is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and spices.
Conclusion:
Creamy Veggie Slimming Soup with Homemade Croutons is a wholesome and comforting dish that’s ideal for those seeking a nourishing yet light meal. With its rich flavors and nutritional benefits, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for convenience; just adjust the cooking time as needed. - How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level. - What can I substitute for the fat-free cream?
You can use low-fat milk, coconut milk, or a plant-based cream for a lighter option. - Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be reheated easily, making it great for meal prep. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add any other veggies you like, such as spinach, bell peppers, or green beans. - What kind of bread is best for croutons?
Sturdy bread like sourdough, whole grain, or ciabatta works best for making croutons. - Can I make the croutons ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the croutons in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. - What should I serve with this soup?
It pairs well with a salad, whole grain bread, or as a side to a protein dish. - How can I make this soup creamy without cream?
You can blend some of the soup to make it creamy while keeping it light, or add a potato for creaminess. - Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, you can easily double the recipe to serve more people; just make sure you have a large enough pot.
Enjoy your Creamy Veggie Slimming Soup with Homemade Croutons!