Vegetable Soup with Mozzarella and Crispy Baguette Croutons

This hearty and flavorful vegetable soup is filled with a mix of fresh vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower, simmered in a rich broth and finished with melted mozzarella. The crispy baguette croutons seasoned with garlic, Provencal herbs, and Parmesan add a crunchy texture to every bite, making this soup a comforting and satisfying meal.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Cuisine This recipe draws from Mediterranean and French-inspired flavors, with a creamy vegetable base and crispy, herb-infused croutons.

Full List of Ingredients

• For the Soup:

  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 potatoes, diced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 broccoli head, cut into florets
  • 1 cauliflower head, cut into florets
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 60g (2 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/3 cup cream

• For the Croutons:

  • 1 baguette, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Provencal herbs
  • 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Finely chop the onion and set it aside. Grate the carrot and cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. Dice the potatoes into small chunks.

2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:

   • Heat vegetable oil and butter in a large pot over low heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the Vegetables:

   • Add the diced potatoes, grated carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 7-8 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.

4. Add the Broth and Simmer:

   • Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the vegetables are covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 7-8 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Melt the Mozzarella:

   • Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the soup and stir until it melts into the broth, creating a creamy texture. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.

6. Blend the Soup:

   • Use a hand blender or a regular blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend just a portion of the soup and leave the rest as is.

7. Prepare the Croutons:

   • Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
   • Slice the baguette into small pieces. In a bowl, mix the vegetable oil with garlic powder, Provencal herbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss the baguette slices in this mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
   • Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

8. Finish and Serve:

   • Pour the blended soup into bowls and drizzle with cream for extra richness. Serve the soup with the crispy baguette croutons on top or on the side.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Protein: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fat: 19 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Cholesterol: 25 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe This soup is inspired by traditional Mediterranean and French cuisines, where soups are often served with a side of crispy bread or croutons. The addition of cheese and cream creates a rich and comforting texture, making it a perfect dish for colder weather.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of vegetables, cheese, and croutons makes this soup a satisfying and complete meal.
• Creamy Texture: The melted mozzarella and cream add a smooth, velvety texture to the soup.
• Crispy Croutons: The crunchy baguette croutons bring a delightful contrast to the creamy soup, making each bite more enjoyable.

Health Benefits

• Packed with Vegetables: The broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots provide essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and fiber, which support immune health and digestion.
• High in Calcium: The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses add calcium, which is important for bone health.
• Good Fats: Olive oil and butter provide healthy fats that are good for heart health.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Serve this soup with a light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• As a Light Dinner: Pair with a glass of white wine for a perfect light dinner.
• With a Dollop of Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to each bowl for extra creaminess.

Cooking Tips

• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more vegetables. For a thinner soup, add more broth or water.
• Customize the Croutons: Feel free to add more herbs or spices to the croutons for different flavor profiles.

Variations to Try

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based mozzarella and omit the cream for a vegan version of this soup.
• Add Protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage to make the soup more filling.
• Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to give the soup a spicy kick.

Conclusion This Vegetable Soup with Mozzarella and Crispy Baguette Croutons is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a starter. The creamy soup paired with the crunchy croutons creates a satisfying meal that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dish for the colder months or simply craving something hearty, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

2. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

3. Can I make this soup without the cheese? Yes, you can omit the cheese for a lighter version of the soup, though it will lose some of its creaminess.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or peas for additional flavor and nutrients.

5. How do I make this soup spicier? Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.

6. What can I use instead of vegetable broth? You can use chicken broth or even water with bouillon cubes as an alternative to vegetable broth.

7. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or fontina for different flavors.

8. Can I make this soup vegan? Yes, you can use plant-based cheese and cream alternatives to make the soup vegan-friendly.

9. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stovetop.

10. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook the soup in a slow cooker. Add the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cheese and cream towards the end of cooking.