Creamy Vegetable Soup
A comforting blend of fresh vegetables and cream, perfect for chilly evenings or a light lunch.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness and flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, diced Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed Provides heartiness to the soup.
- 1 medium zucchini, diced Adds texture and flavor.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped Provides nutrients and color.
- 4 cups vegetable broth Base for the soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream Adds creaminess and richness.
- to taste Salt & pepper For seasoning.
- optional fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley) for garnish Enhances presentation and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent browning.
- Stir in the diced carrots and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and release their natural sweetness.
- Add the diced zucchini and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 15 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Once the vegetables have softened, stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Allow the mixture to heat through for another 5 minutes, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, carefully blend the soup using an immersion blender until smooth, or process it in batches in a regular blender. Check the seasoning one last time before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
For extra flavor, roast the vegetables in the oven for 20 minutes before adding them to the pot. Substitute half of the heavy cream with milk for a lighter option. Add crushed red pepper for a subtle kick. Feel free to enhance the soup with leftover cooked chicken or beans for added protein. This soup thickens as it sits, so you may need to add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency when reheating.