There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of cream of vegetable soup to brighten up a chilly day or provide a nourishing meal anytime. This recipe is a perfect blend of fresh garden vegetables, gently simmered and blended into a luxuriously smooth and creamy soup.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this soup is straightforward to make, packed with nutrients, and endlessly customizable to your taste. It’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies while indulging in a velvety texture that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Plus, the versatility of this soup means you can swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. From classic carrots and potatoes to vibrant greens and sweet corn, the flavor possibilities are endless!
Ready to cozy up with a bowl? Let’s dive into this delightful and healthy cream of veg soup recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cream of vegetable soup recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering rich, layered flavors.
The soup is naturally creamy without relying on heavy cream, making it lighter yet just as luscious. It’s also highly adaptable — you can tailor it to include your favorite vegetables or whatever you have available.
Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to boost your vegetable intake, perfect for picky eaters or those looking to eat healthier. The soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week with no fuss.
Lastly, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Immersion blender or countertop blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in your soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in the chopped carrots, potatoes, celery, broccoli, and cauliflower. Cook for 5-6 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the pot from heat, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth.
- Return the blended soup to the pot, place it on low heat, and stir in the milk along with dried thyme. Heat gently without boiling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra boost of flavor, try roasting your vegetables before blending — it adds a lovely depth and sweetness to the soup!”
- You can substitute the milk with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version that still tastes creamy.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add a small peeled potato or cauliflower to enhance creaminess.
- Include herbs like rosemary or basil for different flavor profiles.
- If you want to add protein, stir in cooked lentils or white beans after blending.
- Try swapping out vegetables based on seasonality or preference — sweet potatoes, squash, zucchini, or peas work wonderfully.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1.5 cups) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Protein | 4g |
Fat | 6g |
Carbohydrates | 20g |
Fiber | 4g |
Sugar | 5g |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Calcium | 10% DV |
Iron | 8% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This creamy vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with a fresh, crunchy baguette or your favorite artisan bread to soak up every delicious drop.
A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette will complement the richness of the soup perfectly. For a heartier meal, add a grilled cheese sandwich or a warm quinoa salad alongside.
If you want to keep it light and healthy, try topping the soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and protein. For a cozy winter meal, serve it with a warm baked potato or a side of roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Making a homemade cream of vegetable soup is easier than you might think, and the delicious results make it well worth the effort. This recipe offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and robust vegetable flavors, making it a nutritious and satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Its flexibility lets you customize the ingredients to match your preferences or what’s available in your pantry, helping reduce food waste while maximizing taste.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting lunch, a light dinner, or a starter for a special meal, this soup fits the bill beautifully. Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes such as Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners or the Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating to complement your wholesome cooking journey.
Happy cooking and stay cozy!
📖 Recipe Card: Cream of Veg Soup
Description: A smooth and creamy vegetable soup perfect for any season. Easy to prepare and packed with nutritious veggies.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add carrots, celery, potato, and zucchini; cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and heat through without boiling.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 18 g
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