This Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Croutons is a warm, comforting dish perfect for any season. Packed with a variety of fresh vegetables and topped with crispy, cheesy croutons, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. The combination of robust flavors and textures makes this soup a family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Preparation Time:
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 onion, finely chopped (about 150g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (about 120g)
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped (about 200g)
- 1 sweet red pepper, chopped (about 150g)
- 1 sweet orange pepper, chopped (about 150g)
- 1 courgette (zucchini), chopped (about 200g)
- 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped (about 300g)
- 1 chili pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (5g)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2g)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (2g)
- 1 liter vegetable broth (4 cups)
- 1 cup frozen peas (150g)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (15g)
For the Parmesan Croutons:
- 4 slices of bread, cubed (about 150g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (2g)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic powder (1g)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25g)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (1g)
Directions:
Prepare the Soup:
- Fry the Onion: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped celery, carrots, sweet red and orange peppers, courgette, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
- Add the Seasonings: Add the finely chopped chili pepper and garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir thoroughly to coat the vegetables.
- Simmer the Vegetables: Cover the pot with a lid and simmer the vegetables for 5-7 minutes to soften slightly and release their flavors.
- Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and let the soup cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add the Peas and Parsley: Add the frozen peas and cook for another 3-5 minutes. Stir in the chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor.
Prepare the Parmesan Croutons:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Season the Bread: Place the cubed bread on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, dried garlic powder, grated Parmesan cheese, and thyme. Toss to coat the bread cubes evenly.
- Bake the Croutons: Cook the seasoned bread cubes in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy.
Serve:
- Finish the Soup: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve with Croutons: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the freshly baked Parmesan croutons. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the soup hot with the Parmesan croutons on top.
- Pair with a side salad or a slice of crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
- Serve alongside a cheese board for a cozy dinner.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the vegetables are chopped evenly for consistent cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more herbs or spices if desired.
- If you prefer a smoother soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the peas and parsley.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
- This soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the variety of vegetables.
- The Parmesan croutons add a source of protein and calcium.
- The soup is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy meal option.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is vegetarian.
- To make it vegan, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Gluten-free croutons or bread can be used to make the recipe gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 7g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 2mg
Storage:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- The croutons can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Croutons is a true celebration of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors.
- The robust blend of vegetables ensures each bite is packed with nutrition, while the savory Parmesan croutons provide a delightful textural contrast.
- Its ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.
- It’s versatile enough to adapt to different dietary needs and can be enjoyed by everyone in the family.
Conclusion: Enjoy this Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Croutons for a comforting and nutritious meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy dinner or packing it for lunch, this soup offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The vibrant vegetables, combined with the crunch of the Parmesan croutons, create a dish that’s not only delicious but also nourishing. Perfect for any season, this soup will bring comfort and joy to your dining table, making every meal a delightful experience.
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other vegetables in the soup?
- Yes, you can customize the soup with any vegetables you have on hand, such as spinach, kale, or green beans.
- Can I freeze the soup?
- Yes, the soup can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese for the croutons?
- You can use any hard cheese like Pecorino Romano or a dairy-free alternative.
- How do I make the soup thicker?
- You can blend a portion of the soup or add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it.
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
- Yes, fresh thyme or other herbs like rosemary or oregano can be used for a fresh flavor.
- What bread works best for the croutons?
- Any sturdy bread like a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough works well for making croutons.
- Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
- Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for easy reheating during the week.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes, simply add all the ingredients except the peas and parsley to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the peas and parsley at the end.
- What can I serve with this soup?
- This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
- How do I reheat the croutons?
- Croutons can be reheated in a 180°C (350°F) oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.