Soup with Aromatic Croutons

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Comforting Vegetable Soup with Aromatic Croutons: A Burst of Flavor

Introduction

This Soup with Aromatic Croutons takes your classic vegetable soup to the next level with fragrant, crispy croutons that add a delightful crunch. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory spices, and perfectly seasoned croutons makes this dish a wholesome and satisfying choice for any meal. Whether it’s a cozy lunch or a light dinner, this soup is the ultimate comfort food!

Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 leek, sliced (white and light green parts only)
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup spinach or kale, roughly chopped

For the Aromatic Croutons:

  • 4 slices of day-old bread, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Tips

  1. Use Seasonal Vegetables: Customize the soup with whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand.
  2. Make the Croutons Crispy: Bake the croutons until golden brown for the perfect crunch.
  3. Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar at the end for a bright finish.
  4. Blended or Chunky: Blend part of the soup for a creamy texture or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
  5. Store Separately: Store the croutons separately to maintain their crispness.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Soup

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
  2. Stir in the leek and zucchini, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Add the spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking and stir until wilted.

Step 2: Make the Aromatic Croutons

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil or melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Spread the seasoned bread cubes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Step 3: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a handful of aromatic croutons.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Description

This Soup with Aromatic Croutons is a bowl of wholesome goodness. The hearty vegetable soup is complemented by the crisp and flavorful croutons, making every bite a satisfying mix of textures and tastes. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is as nourishing as it is comforting.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 (soup), 70 (croutons)
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 6g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought croutons?
Yes, but making them at home adds freshness and allows you to control the flavor.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep croutons in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup (without the croutons) in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

4. Can I add protein to the soup?
Yes, add cooked chicken, beans, or tofu for extra protein.

5. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free bread for the croutons or skip them entirely.

Recommendations

  1. Serve with Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
  2. Double the Batch: This soup is great for meal prep or freezing.
  3. Add a Kick: Sprinkle chili flakes or drizzle hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Conclusion

This Soup with Aromatic Croutons is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its flavorful broth, tender vegetables, and crunchy croutons, it’s a dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Try it today for a cozy, homemade meal!

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