Welcome to my kitchen! Today, we’re making a delicious and nutritious vegetable soup with homemade croutons. This hearty soup is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, providing a warm and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. The addition of fragrant croutons adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 35 Minutes
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
- 300 grams celery, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 zucchinis, chopped
- 35 grams parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth
- For the Croutons:
- 3 slices whole wheat bread, cut into cubes
- Salt, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Dried garlic, to taste
- Red pepper, to taste
- Italian herbs, to taste
- 1 teaspoon butter
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, add 300 grams of chopped celery, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 3 diced potatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes over medium heat.
- Add Zucchini and Parsley:
- Add 2 chopped zucchinis and 35 grams of chopped parsley to the pot. Mix the vegetables well.
- Season and Add Broth:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Pour in 4 cups (1 liter) of vegetable broth. Cover with a lid and cook for 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the Croutons:
- While the soup is cooking, prepare the croutons. In a frying pan, melt 1 teaspoon of butter over medium heat. Add 3 slices of whole wheat bread, cut into cubes.
- Drizzle the bread cubes with olive oil and season with salt, dried garlic, red pepper, and Italian herbs to taste. Fry for 3-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Blend the Soup:
- Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to grind the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Serve:
- Serve the hot vegetable soup in bowls, topped with the fragrant croutons. Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup with a side of fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the vegetables are well-cooked before blending for a smoother texture.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup.
Nutritional Benefits
- Celery and Zucchini: Low in calories and high in vitamins and fiber.
- Potatoes: Provide a good source of carbohydrates and potassium.
- Garlic: Offers immune-boosting properties and adds a robust flavor.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Contains no meat products.
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter for croutons.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free bread for croutons.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup (without croutons) in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Healthy and nutritious, packed with fresh vegetables.
- Comforting and satisfying, perfect for any season.
- The homemade croutons add an irresistible crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
This vegetable soup with homemade croutons is a delightful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with fresh, wholesome ingredients, it provides a comforting and satisfying dining experience. Enjoy this delicious soup and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more healthy recipes. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables in this soup? Yes, you can add or substitute other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers.
- How do I make this soup creamier? Add a splash of cream or a dollop of yogurt after blending the soup.
- Can I make the croutons in advance? Yes, you can prepare the croutons ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
- How do I store leftover soup? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth? Yes, but it will no longer be vegetarian. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- How do I prevent the soup from being too salty? Start with less salt and adjust to taste after cooking.
- Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh? Yes, but fresh parsley adds a brighter flavor.
- How do I reheat frozen soup? Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over medium heat.
- Can I add protein to this soup? Yes, you can add cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken for extra protein.
- What can I serve with this soup? Serve with a side salad, a piece of crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious vegetable soup with homemade croutons!