Hearty Vegetable Soup with Flavorful Croutons

When the chill of autumn sets in, there’s no better remedy than a steaming bowl of hearty vegetable soup. This comforting dish is a canvas for your favorite seasonal vegetables, each contributing to a vibrant, nourishing meal.

Paired with homemade croutons infused with herbs, this soup transforms a simple recipe into a delightful culinary experience. Perfect for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this vegetable soup is a reminder of the warmth that good food can bring.

Ingredients :

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup kale or Swiss chard, chopped
• Fresh basil, for garnish

For the Flavorful Croutons:

• 4 cups day-old bread (ciabatta or whole grain), cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions :

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Root Vegetables:
   Mix in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced sweet potato. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and develop flavor.
3. Incorporate Remaining Ingredients:
   Add the cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, and corn to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then toss in the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Finish with Greens:
   Just before serving, stir in the chopped kale or Swiss chard and simmer for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning to your taste.
5. Make the Croutons:
   While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with melted butter or olive oil, onion powder, dried basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss until the bread is well coated.
6. Bake Until Golden:
   Spread the seasoned bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Ladle the warm vegetable soup into bowls and generously top with the homemade croutons. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of flavor and color.

Conclusion :

This Hearty Vegetable Soup with Flavorful Croutons is a delightful blend of nutritious ingredients and comforting textures. It’s a versatile recipe that invites creativity, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand.

The addition of crispy croutons not only enhances the soup’s flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Enjoy this warming dish with loved ones, and let it become a staple in your fall and winter repertoire.

Whether served as a starter or the main event, this soup is sure to please both the palate and the heart!

Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill Lectures