Warm, nourishing, and full of fresh flavors, this vegetable soup is the perfect comfort food for any day of the year. Bursting with a rainbow of vegetables and aromatic herbs, it’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Easy to prepare and customizable, this soup pairs beautifully with homemade croutons for an extra crunch, making each spoonful irresistible. Ideal for a light lunch, cozy dinner, or a healthy snack, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Leeks, chopped | 2 |
| Celery stalks, chopped | 2 |
| Carrot, diced | 1 |
| Red pepper, diced | 1 |
| Zucchini, diced | 1 |
| Potatoes, diced | 2 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Chili pepper, minced (optional) | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Thyme (fresh or dried) | 1 tsp |
| Vegetable broth | 1 liter (4 cups) |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish |
For the Croutons:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bread slices | 3 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Dried garlic | 1 tsp |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 tsp |
| Oregano | 1 tsp |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, leeks, and celery, sautéing until soft. Stir in diced carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes. Mix well to combine.
2. Season and Simmer:
Add minced garlic, chili pepper (if using), salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir everything thoroughly. Cover the pot and let the vegetables simmer for 5–7 minutes to release their flavors.
3. Add Broth and Cook:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
4. Make the Croutons:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Cut bread slices into cubes. Place on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, dried garlic, red pepper, and oregano. Toss to coat evenly. Bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
5. Finish and Serve:
Remove the soup from heat and stir in chopped parsley. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each serving with a handful of croutons.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra richness.
- Complement the meal with a glass of chilled white wine.
Cooking Tips
- For a creamier soup, blend a portion and mix it back in.
- Swap vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference.
- Include beans or lentils for added protein and heartiness.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
- Low in Calories: A healthy option for a light meal.
- Antioxidants: Garlic, chili pepper, and herbs provide antioxidant properties.
