This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a comforting and wholesome dish packed with colorful veggies, tender noodles, and the crunch of homemade croutons. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a healthy, nourishing meal.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 onion, chopped
- Olive oil for frying
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 red pepper, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 200 ml (1 cup) vegetable broth
- 1.5 liters (7 cups) vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 100 g (1/2 cup) noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 2 bay leaves
For the Croutons:
- 3 slices of bread, cut into cubes
- Olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste
- Dried garlic, to taste
Directions
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over low heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, red pepper, green pepper, minced garlic, and sliced leek.
- Fry the vegetables over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the Potatoes and Flour:
- Stir the diced potatoes into the pot.
- Sprinkle in the flour and mix well to coat the vegetables evenly.
3. Add the Broth:
- Pour in 200 ml (1 cup) of vegetable broth and stir to avoid lumps.
- Gradually add the remaining 1.5 liters (7 cups) of broth while stirring continuously.
4. Cook the Soup:
- Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the noodles, dried parsley, and bay leaves.
- Cover and cook for another 15 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
5. Prepare the Croutons:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Place the bread cubes on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, red pepper flakes, and dried garlic.
- Toss to coat the bread cubes evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until golden and crispy.
6. Finish the Soup:
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
- Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of flavor.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crunchy homemade croutons. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad or a slice of crusty bread.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking Tips
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles and bread for the croutons.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for additional depth.
Nutritional Benefits
- Vegetables: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Potatoes: Provide potassium and complex carbohydrates.
- Leeks and garlic: Offer immune-boosting properties.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Easily adaptable for gluten-free or vegan diets by using appropriate substitutions.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 5 g
Storage
- Store the soup (without croutons) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- Keep croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with wholesome ingredients.
- The homemade croutons add a delightful crunch.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
- Perfect for meal prep and freezes well for future meals.
Conclusion
This Hearty Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons is a delicious, warming dish that’s easy to make and packed with goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light dinner or sharing it with loved ones, it’s a meal that satisfies every time. Try it today and discover your new favorite soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, cooked chicken or sausage can be added for a protein boost. - What other vegetables can I use?
Zucchini, spinach, or corn are great additions. - Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Add fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for extra flavor. - How do I make this vegan?
Ensure the broth is vegetable-based and skip the Parmesan topping. - What noodles work best?
Small pasta shapes like orzo, elbow macaroni, or vermicelli work well. - Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day! Add noodles when reheating to avoid overcooking. - How do I thicken the soup?
Add a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend some of the cooked potatoes. - What can I use instead of croutons?
Try topping with crispy tortilla strips or crackers. - Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient substitute for fresh ones. - Can I make this soup spicy?
Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce for heat.