Creamy Veggie Slimming Soup with Homemade Croutons

Ingredients:

For the Slimming Soup:

1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
400 grams celery, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 courgettes (zucchini), sliced
600 grams broccoli, chopped
1 liter vegetable broth
200 ml fat-free cream
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
For the Croutons:

4 slices of bread, cut into cubes
30 ml olive oil
Salt, to taste
Red pepper flakes, to taste
Italian herbs, to taste
Dried garlic, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Slimming Soup:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
Add the chopped celery and minced garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Add the sliced carrots, courgettes, and chopped broccoli to the pot. Stir to combine.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, add the fat-free cream to the soup. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Croutons:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a mixing bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, red pepper flakes, Italian herbs, and dried garlic until evenly coated.
Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
Remove from the oven and let them cool.
Serving Suggestions:

Serve the soup as a light lunch or dinner option alongside a crisp green salad.
Pair it with a side of whole-grain bread for a more filling meal.
Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:

To make the soup even lighter, you can substitute the fat-free cream with low-fat milk or coconut milk.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Benefits:

Rich in fiber from vegetables like celery, carrots, zucchini, and broccoli.
Provides essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
The fat-free cream adds creaminess without the extra calories.
Dietary Information:

Vegetarian
Can be made vegan by using plant-based cream or omitting the cream entirely
Storage:

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Croutons can be stored in a sealed container at room temperature for several days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

It’s a satisfying and flavorful soup that’s perfect for weight management.
The homemade croutons add a delightful crunch and texture.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and spices.
Conclusion:

Creamy Veggie Slimming Soup with Homemade Croutons is a wholesome and comforting dish that’s ideal for those seeking a nourishing yet light meal. With its rich flavors and nutritional benefits, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!