Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons

This Vegetable Soup with homemade croutons is the perfect healthy and comforting meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and topped with crispy croutons, this soup is both nutritious and delicious.

Total Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients for the Vegetable Soup

• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 red pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow or green pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Olive oil
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 200 ml (1 cup) vegetable broth (for initial mixing)
• 1.5 liters (7 cups) vegetable broth
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 100g (1/2 cup) noodles
• Dried parsley
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredients for Homemade Croutons

• 3 slices of bread, cubed
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Red pepper flakes

How to Make This Vegetable Soup

1. Prepare the Soup Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, carrot, and peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

2. Thicken the Soup

Sprinkle flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add 1 cup of vegetable broth, stirring constantly until smooth. This step helps thicken your Vegetable Soup.

3. Complete the Soup

Add the remaining 1.5 liters of vegetable broth, cubed potatoes, salt, black pepper, dried parsley, and bay leaves. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Add the noodles and cook according to package instructions (7-10 minutes) to complete your Vegetable Soup.

4. Make the Homemade Croutons

While the soup simmers, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake until golden and crispy, about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through. These croutons add a perfect crunch to your Vegetable Soup.

5. Finish and Serve

Once the noodles are cooked and the potatoes are tender, remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crispy homemade croutons. Enjoy your Vegetable Soup!

Nutritional Benefits of This Vegetable Soup

• Onion: Rich in antioxidants, supports immune health.
• Celery: Anti-inflammatory, good source of vitamins.
• Carrot: High in beta-carotene, promotes eye health.
• Peppers: Packed with vitamins A and C, helps fight inflammation.
• Garlic: Boosts the immune system with potent medicinal properties.
• Potatoes: Provide essential nutrients and fiber.
• Noodles: Adds satisfying texture and energy.
• Parsley: Rich in vitamins, offers antioxidant benefits.

Tips for Making the Best Vegetable Soup

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables provide the best flavor and nutrients.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Avoid Overcooking: To retain nutrients and vibrant colors, avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions for This Vegetable Soup

• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or a baguette for a heartier meal.
• With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• As a Starter: Serve as an appetizer before the main course.

Storage and Reheating This Vegetable Soup

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a bit of water or broth if the soup thickens.

Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Soup

• Easy to Make: Simple preparation with fresh ingredients.
• Versatile: Great for any meal and easily customizable.
• Delicious Flavor: Creamy and packed with vegetables.
• Nutritious: A well-rounded meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

FAQs About This Vegetable Soup

1. Can I add other vegetables?
   • Yes, feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to your Vegetable Soup.
2. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
   • Yes, if you’re not following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   • Yes, cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Can I freeze the croutons?
   • Croutons are best made fresh but can be frozen and reheated in the oven.
5. What type of bread is best for croutons?
   • Stale or day-old bread crisps up nicely for your Vegetable Soup.
6. How can I make the soup spicy?
   • Add chili flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
7. Is this soup suitable for a keto diet?
   • The potatoes and noodles make it unsuitable, but they can be omitted or replaced with low-carb alternatives.
8. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
   • Yes, use three times the amount of fresh herbs.
9. How do I thicken the soup without flour?
   • You can use cornstarch or blend some of the soup and return it to the pot for a thicker consistency.
10. What can I serve with this soup for a complete meal?
    • Pair with crusty bread, a green salad, or a sandwich for a balanced meal.

This Vegetable Soup with homemade croutons is more than just a meal; it’s a nourishing experience that’s easy to make and delightful to eat. Perfect for boosting your health while enjoying a comforting dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your collection. Try it today and savor the vibrant flavors and health benefits of this wholesome soup!