Creamy Vegetable Soup with Aromatic Croutons
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Carrots: 2, diced
- Celery Stalks: 3, chopped
- Potatoes: 2, peeled and diced
- Frozen Peas: 350 grams
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Red Pepper: To taste
- Oregano: To taste
- Nutmeg: A pinch
- Fresh Thyme or Rosemary: A few sprigs
- Vegetable Broth: Enough to cover the vegetables
- Cream: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
For the Aromatic Croutons:
- Bread Slices: 2, cubed
- Olive Oil: As needed
- Salt: To taste
- Dried Garlic: To taste
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: To taste
- Red Pepper: To taste
- Oregano: To taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for a few minutes, then pour in enough vegetable broth to cover the vegetables.
- Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and let it simmer. Add the frozen peas, nutmeg, thyme or rosemary, and season with salt, black pepper, red pepper, and oregano.
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove from heat, stir in the cream, and mix well to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Make the Aromatic Croutons:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Toss the cubed bread in olive oil, salt, dried garlic, Parmesan, red pepper, and oregano until well coated.
- Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and crispy.
Serve:
Ladle the creamy vegetable soup into bowls and top with aromatic croutons. Enjoy warm!
Tips:
- Soup Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or transfer some to a regular blender before adding the cream.
- Crouton Variations: Try using different cheeses, such as cheddar or Gruyère, or add other herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.
- Vegetable Flexibility: Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or any other vegetables you have on hand.
Nutritional Benefits:
This soup is a nutrient-rich option, filled with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, while the cream adds richness. The croutons provide a satisfying crunch with a hint of Parmesan for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair the soup with a light green salad or a simple sandwich to create a complete meal. The croutons also make a great snack on their own or sprinkled over salads.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat over medium heat, adding more broth if needed.
- Reheat: Gently reheat the soup in a pot on the stove, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little water or broth to thin it out.
- Crouton Storage: Keep croutons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refresh them in the oven before serving to restore crispiness.