Passed down from Elizabeth’s grandmother, this vegetable soup is a nutritious and delicious dish perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Packed with fresh vegetables and topped with homemade Parmesan croutons, this soup is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch or a filling dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients Overview
For the Soup:
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a savory base flavor.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding healthy fats.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 sweet red pepper, chopped
- 1 sweet orange pepper, chopped
- 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped: Adds heat.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 liter vegetable broth: Forms the base of the soup.
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds freshness and color.
For the Parmesan Croutons:
- 4 slices of bread, cubed
- Olive oil: Ensures the bread cubes become crispy and flavorful.
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp dried garlic
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp thyme
Directions in Detail
1. Prepare the Soup:
- Fry the Onion: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until it becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped celery, carrot, sweet red and orange peppers, courgette, and potatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Add the Seasonings: Add the finely chopped chili pepper and garlic to the pot. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are well coated with the seasonings.
- Simmer the Vegetables: Cover the pot with a lid and simmer the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly and release their flavors.
- Add the Broth: Pour in 1 liter of vegetable broth. Let the soup cook for 15 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld together.
- Add the Peas and Parsley: Add 1 cup of frozen peas to the soup and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor.
2. Prepare the Parmesan Croutons:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Season the Bread: Place the cubed bread on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, dried garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Toss to coat the bread cubes evenly.
- Bake the Croutons: Cook the seasoned bread cubes in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
3. Serve:
- Finish the Soup: Once the soup is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve with Croutons: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the freshly baked Parmesan croutons. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and nutritional value.
- Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed for the perfect balance.
- Crouton Storage: Store any leftover croutons in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Low in Calories: Perfect for weight loss while still being filling and nutritious.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with a variety of vegetables, providing essential nutrients.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds beneficial fats that are good for heart health.
Serving Suggestions:
- Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy this soup as a light meal or pair it with a side salad.
- Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheats well for quick meals.
Conclusion
This vegetable soup is not just a comforting dish but also a nutritious one that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy meal. With the added crunch of homemade Parmesan croutons, it’s a recipe that combines tradition with taste and health benefits. Make it part of your regular meal rotation and enjoy the rich flavors and wholesome goodness of this family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
- Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like spinach, kale, or green beans based on your preference or availability.
- Is there a way to make this soup vegan?
- Yes, ensure the croutons are made with a vegan cheese alternative or skip the Parmesan entirely.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The croutons should be stored separately in an airtight container to keep them crispy.
- Can I freeze this soup?
- Yes, this soup freezes well. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan for the croutons?
- You can use any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or even a vegan cheese if preferred.
- Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
- Definitely! This soup reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. You can also prepare the croutons in advance.
- Can I add pasta or grains to the soup?
- Yes, adding small pasta, quinoa, or barley can make the soup even heartier.
- What can I serve with this soup?
- A side salad, a slice of crusty bread, or a light sandwich pairs wonderfully with this soup.
- How do I make the soup spicier?
- Add more chili pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Can I use store-bought croutons instead of making my own?
- Yes, store-bought croutons are a convenient option if you’re short on time, but homemade croutons add a special touch.
Enjoy the comfort and health benefits of Elizabeth’s vegetable soup with Parmesan croutons, a recipe that’s sure to become a beloved part of your meal repertoire!