Recipe for Cream of Vegetable Soup That Warms Your Soul

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of cream of vegetable soup, especially on a chilly day or when you need a nourishing meal that’s both light and satisfying. This soup combines a medley of fresh vegetables with a creamy base, creating a smooth and flavorful dish that’s perfect as a starter or a wholesome lunch.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and sure to become a favorite in your household.

One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. You can use whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand and easily customize the creaminess to your liking, making it vegan or dairy-based depending on your preference.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those extra servings of veggies, ensuring you’re fueling your body with essential nutrients while indulging in something delicious.

Ready to dive into the cozy world of creamy vegetable goodness? Let’s explore why this recipe stands out, gather our ingredients, and walk through each step carefully to make a perfect pot of cream of vegetable soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cream of vegetable soup recipe is a delightful balance of health and indulgence. It’s packed with vibrant veggies that provide essential vitamins and minerals, yet it remains silky smooth and rich thanks to the creamy base.

Here’s why it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen:

• Easy and quick to prepare: From chopping to simmering, the entire process takes about 30-40 minutes.
• Flexible ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you prefer or have on hand, making it perfect for any season.
• Customizable creaminess: Make it dairy-free with coconut milk or keep it classic with cream or milk.
• Perfect for meal prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer and tastes even better the next day.
• Family-friendly: Mild flavors that kids and adults alike will enjoy, with opportunities to spice it up or keep it simple.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup milk or coconut milk for vegan version
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional garnish: chopped parsley, croutons, or a drizzle of cream

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Blender or immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare your vegetables: Wash, peel (if necessary), and chop all your vegetables into roughly uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking.
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil or butter in your pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced carrots, celery, and potato: Stir and cook for another 5 minutes. This step helps bring out the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
4. Add cauliflower and broccoli florets: Mix well into the pot with the other veggies.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth: Add the broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
6. Simmer: Let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
7. Remove the bay leaf: This is important to avoid any bitter taste in the final soup.
8. Puree the soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer batches to a blender, then return to the pot.
9. Add milk or coconut milk: Stir in your choice of milk to reach your desired creaminess. Heat through but do not boil to prevent curdling.
10. Season to taste: Add salt and pepper, adjusting as necessary. If you want a little extra depth, a pinch of nutmeg pairs beautifully here.
11. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, croutons, or a swirl of cream if desired.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t overcook your vegetables before blending — you want them tender but not mushy for the best texture.”

• Vegan adaptation: Use coconut milk or any plant-based milk instead of dairy to keep it vegan and creamy.
• Extra protein: Add cooked lentils or white beans before blending for a heartier soup.
• Flavor boost: Try adding a teaspoon of chilli powder vegan spice blend or curry powder for a spiced twist.
• Make it chunky: Blend only half the soup and leave the rest with vegetable chunks for varied texture.
• Storage: This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently.
• Add fresh herbs: Stir in fresh basil or cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.

Nutrition Facts

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside warm crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

For a heartier option, add a grilled cheese sandwich or a quinoa salad on the side.

If you want to keep things light, a handful of roasted seeds or nuts sprinkled on top adds a pleasant crunch and extra nutrients. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Looking for more vegetarian inspiration? Check out our A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion or explore Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals to complement your soup perfectly.

Conclusion

Making cream of vegetable soup at home is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy fresh produce in a comforting form. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser while remaining incredibly nutritious and adaptable.

This recipe is a fantastic foundation that you can tweak based on your tastes and dietary preferences, whether you want it vegan, dairy-free, or packed with extra protein.

By incorporating simple, wholesome ingredients and a few key techniques, you’ll create a soup that warms the soul and nourishes the body. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or add your favorite herbs and spices.

Whether enjoyed as a starter or a light meal, this cream of vegetable soup will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. For more easy and delicious vegetarian dishes, explore our collection of Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.

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