This delightful vegetable soup is a hearty and wholesome dish perfect for any season. Packed with nutritious ingredients like potatoes, zucchini, and carrots, it offers a comforting and satisfying meal that is both flavorful and healthy. The addition of crunchy bread topped with a fresh tomato and garlic mixture adds a delightful texture contrast, making this soup a complete and balanced meal.
Preparation Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 5-7 potatoes
- 1 onion
- Olive oil
- 1 carrot
- 2-3 zucchini
- 700 ml (2.5 cups) water
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Bread
- 1-2 tomatoes
- Garlic
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Smoked peppers
- Fresh dill or parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Peel and dice the potatoes. Cook them in boiling water for 10-12 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Finely chop the onion and fry in olive oil for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Peel and grate the carrot, add to the pan with the onion, and fry for another 5-7 minutes.
- Slice the zucchini and add to the pan, cooking for 10-12 minutes until soft.
- Add 700 ml (2.5 cups) of water to the pan. Cover with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Add the cooked potatoes and chopped parsley to the pan, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- While the soup is cooking, prepare the crunchy bread. Slice the bread and brush with olive oil. Fry on both sides until golden and crispy.
- Dice the tomatoes and mince the garlic. Mix together with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve this mixture on top of the crunchy bread.
- Once the soup is ready, let it cool down slightly and blend it with a hand mixer until smooth.
- Season the soup with smoked peppers, additional garlic, and garnish with fresh dill or parsley.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the soup hot with a side of crunchy bread.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.
Cooking Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Ensure to sauté the vegetables well to enhance their flavors before adding water.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables.
- High in fiber, aiding digestion.
- Low in fat, making it a heart-healthy choice.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- Can be made vegan by using dairy-free butter or olive oil for the bread.
- Gluten-free if served without the bread or with gluten-free bread.
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
- Store the crunchy bread separately to maintain its crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a versatile and nutritious meal perfect for any time of the year.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Conclusion:
This vegetable soup with crunchy bread is not just a meal but an experience of flavors and textures. It is an excellent choice for a healthy, filling, and delicious meal that you and your family will love. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this homemade dish, knowing it is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.