vegetable soup with croutons

Vegetable soup with croutons

When it comes to cooking, vegetable soup is one of the simplest and most comforting dishes we can create. Moreover, it is a healthy and versatile choice, perfect for any time of the day. This vegetable soup recipe with croutons will not only warm your soul but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 large onion
- 200 g tomato juice
- a bunch of fresh parsley
- croutons or 3 slices of country bread
- 3 liters of water
- 1 cube of soup concentrate (like Delikat)
- salt and pepper to taste
- olive oil
- grated parmesan (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing the vegetables. Cut the carrot, parsley, and parsnip into thick strips to add texture to the soup. Chop the onion finely so that it integrates well into the soup.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. This step will add a wonderful flavor to your soup. Once the onion is sautéed, add the carrot, parsley, and parsnip. Pour 3 liters of water over the vegetables and add the soup concentrate cube for a rich taste.

3. Adding the tomato juice: When the vegetables are almost done, about 20 minutes of boiling, add the tomato juice. This will give the soup a vibrant color and a delightful flavor. Let it boil for another 10 minutes.

4. Finishing the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

5. Preparing the croutons: If you don’t have croutons on hand, don’t worry! You can easily make them at home. Cut 3 slices of country bread into cubes and toast them in a pan with a little olive oil for 15 minutes until they are golden and crispy.

6. Serving: Serve the soup hot in bowls, add the croutons on top, and if desired, sprinkle a little grated parmesan for a savory taste.

Practical tips:
- For a more intense flavor, you can add some herbs, such as thyme or rosemary.
- This soup can be adapted based on seasonal vegetables you have on hand. For example, you can add zucchini or celery for a variety of flavors.
- If you want a heartier soup, you can add beans or lentils.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 150 kcal
- Fat: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Protein: 5 g

Vegetable soup with croutons is ideal to be served alongside a slice of fresh bread or with a light salad. It is an excellent option for a quick lunch or a comforting dinner, and the combination of nutrient-rich vegetables will provide you with energy and vitality.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, it is a very convenient option. Make sure to add them at the beginning of the cooking process.
- How can I make the soup spicier? You can add a pinch of chili powder or a little chili sauce for an extra kick.
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, this soup freezes very well and can be easily reheated.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get to work! Enjoy every step of preparing this delicious soup and remember to relax with your loved ones while savoring a steaming bowl of this comforting dish. Bon appétit!