Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Croutons Recipe

This hearty vegetable soup, accompanied by crispy Parmesan croutons, is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Packed with a variety of vegetables and seasoned to perfection, this soup is both nutritious and delicious. The Parmesan croutons add a savory crunch, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Ideal for a cozy meal, this soup is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Preparation Time

• Total time: 45 minutes
• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 sweet red pepper, chopped
• 1 sweet orange pepper, chopped
• 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 chili pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 liter vegetable broth
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Parmesan Croutons:

• 4 slices of bread, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic powder
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Directions

1. Prepare the Soup:
   1. Fry the Onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
   2. Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped celery, carrot, sweet red pepper, sweet orange pepper, courgette, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
   3. Add the Seasonings: Add the finely chopped chili pepper and garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Mix thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are well coated.
   4. Simmer the Vegetables: Cover the pot with a lid and simmer the vegetables for 5-7 minutes to soften slightly and release their flavors.
   5. Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and let the soup cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
   6. Add the Peas and Parsley: Add the frozen peas and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor.
2. Prepare the Parmesan Croutons:
   1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   2. 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.
   3. 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:
   1. Finish the Soup: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed to ensure balanced flavors.
   2. Serve with Croutons: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the freshly baked Parmesan croutons. Enjoy the combination of the hearty vegetable soup and the crispy, savory croutons.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the soup hot with the Parmesan croutons on top.
• Pair with a side salad or a slice of crusty bread for a more substantial meal.

Cooking Tips

• Ensure the vegetables are chopped evenly for consistent cooking.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more herbs or spices if desired.

Nutritional Benefits

• This soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the variety of vegetables.
• The Parmesan croutons add a source of protein and calcium.

Dietary Information

• This recipe is vegetarian.
• To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Storage Tips

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
• The croutons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The soup is hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutritious vegetables.
• The Parmesan croutons add a delightful crunch and savory flavor.
• It’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Conclusion

Enjoy this Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Croutons for a comforting and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner or packing it for lunch, this soup offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures.