3 pieces of bread
Olive oil (to pour a little bit)
Sal.
Garlic that has been dried.
Crushed red pepper
Orégano
Instructions:
For the Soup:
Cook the fragrant ingredients in a pan.
In a big pot, warm up olive oil on medium heat.
Put the diced onion in the pan and cook until it becomes clear.
Put the leeks and celery in the pan and cook them until they start to get soft.
Get the vegetables ready.
Add the chopped carrot, red pepper, zucchini, and potatoes.
Stir everything together to mix the vegetables.
Cook slowly:
Put the chopped garlic, chili pepper (if desired), salt, pepper, and thyme in the pot.
Mix everything well.
Put a lid on the pot and let the vegetables cook gently for 5-7 minutes to bring out their flavors.
Include broth and let it simmer.
Add the vegetable broth and heat the soup until it starts to boil gently.
Lower the temperature and let it cook gently for around 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
For the crunchy bread pieces:
Make the croutons:
While the soup is cooking, heat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Cut the pieces of bread into small squares.
Put the pieces of bread on a baking sheet, pour olive oil over them, and add salt, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano.
Mix well to cover everything uniformly.
Cook the croutons in the oven for around 10 minutes until they are golden and crunchy.
Complete and serve.
Complete the soup:
After the soup is done, take it off the stove and mix in the chopped parsley.
Waiter:
Put the hot soup in bowls and add some croutons on top of each serving.
Ways to serve food:
Offer the soup with some crunchy bread or a crisp green salad.
Add a bit of sour cream or sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
Enjoy with a glass of your preferred white wine to complement your meal.
Tips for Cooking:
To make the soup creamier, use a blender to mix a part of it and then add it back to the pot.
Choose the vegetables that are currently in season or that you prefer.
Include beans or lentils to increase the protein content and make the dish more filling.
Health Benefits:
Full of Vitamins and Minerals: This soup is full of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber from the different vegetables it contains.
Low in Calories: A good choice for a light and healthy meal.
Antioxidant Benefits: Ingredients such as garlic, chili pepper, and fresh herbs have antioxidant properties.
Information about food and what to eat.
I am a vegetarian.
Vegan: Yes, if croutons are made with bread that is vegan.
Gluten-Free: Yes, if croutons are made with bread that does not contain gluten.
Final thoughts:
In summary, this delicious Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons is not just a dish – it’s a comforting and nourishing meal that will surely make you feel satisfied both physically and emotionally. This dish is full of bright colors, delicious tastes, and healthy ingredients, making every bite a joyful experience. Whether you have it on a chilly winter evening or for a quick lunch on a sunny day, this soup will surely become a favorite in your cooking routine. Therefore, get together with your family and friends, serve some soup, and enjoy the small joys of a meal made at home. ¡Que aproveche!
Commonly Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
You can replace or add different vegetables depending on what you have or what is currently available. Spinach, kale, or green beans are excellent choices to add.
How can I thicken the soup?
To make the soup thicker, blend some of it and then mix it back into the pot. You can also put more potatoes or lentils.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
This soup can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm up slowly on the stove before serving.
How can I add some heat to this soup?
Including chopped spicy pepper adds flavor, but you can also use red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to make it spicier.
Can I put the soup in the freezer?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Let it cool down completely before putting it in a container that can be placed in the freezer. You can store in the freezer for a maximum of 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before warming up.
Which type of bread is best for making croutons?
Use a strong bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or a French baguette for the most delicious croutons.
Can I prepare the croutons ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the croutons in advance and store them.
