Hearty Vegetable Soup with Parmesan Croutons

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. What bread works best for the croutons?
   • Any sturdy bread like a baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough works well for making croutons.
7. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
   • Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for easy reheating during the week.
8. 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.
9. What can I serve with this soup?
   • This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
10. 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.