Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the carrots, celery, potato, zucchini, and green beans. Sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly soften and absorb the flavors.
Simmer the Soup:
Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir well, and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Season and Final Touches:
Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the peas (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed.
For the Homemade Croutons:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Bread:
In a bowl, toss the bread cubes with olive oil (or melted butter), garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Bake the Croutons:
Spread the bread cubes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the croutons are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Once the croutons are ready, sprinkle them on top of the vegetable soup just before serving for added crunch.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving suggestion:
This vegetable soup is a complete meal when served with homemade croutons, but you can also enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for extra nutrition.
Storing leftovers:
Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup if it thickens too much.
Freezing:
The soup freezes well without the croutons. Store the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To serve, reheat the soup on the stove and bake fresh croutons. Avoid freezing the croutons, as they may become soggy upon thawing.
Variants of Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons:
Chunky Vegetable Soup:
For a heartier soup, cut the vegetables into larger pieces. This version offers a more rustic texture and a satisfying bite with each spoonful.
Spicy Vegetable Soup:
If you like a little heat, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic. This gives the soup a spicy kick and enhances the depth of flavor.
Creamy Vegetable Soup:
For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. After blending, return it to the pot, stir in some heavy cream, and heat it through for a velvety finish.
Lentil and Vegetable Soup:
Add 1/2 cup of dried lentils to the soup for added protein and fiber. If using dried lentils, make sure to extend the cooking time to 40-45 minutes to ensure they cook through.
Italian-Inspired Soup:
For an Italian twist, add some Parmesan cheese to the soup, either grated in while it’s simmering or sprinkled on top just before serving. You can also add a dash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
FAQ:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables for the soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used instead of fresh ones, making the soup even easier to prepare. Just add them when the recipe calls for fresh vegetables and cook them until tender.
2. Can I add beans to the vegetable soup?
Absolutely! Adding beans, such as cannellini beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans, is a great way to increase the soup’s protein content. Drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
3. Can I make the soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except for the croutons) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the peas in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
4. Can I make the croutons ahead of time?
Yes, homemade croutons can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Make a big batch and use them to top soups, salads, or even as a snack.
5. How can I make the soup gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, ensure that the broth you’re using is gluten-free. Also, substitute gluten-free bread when making the croutons.
This Delicious Vegetable Soup with Homemade Croutons offers a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone. Full of fresh vegetables and paired with crispy croutons, it’s comfort in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy dinner or preparing it for meal prep, this soup is versatile, easy to make, and absolutely delicious!
ADVERTISEMENT
