Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup

When the air turns crisp and the evenings grow longer, nothing warms the spirit quite like a velvety bowl of Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup. This comforting dish brings together the earthy flavors of fresh garden vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a nutritious meal that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you're seeking a light lunch or a cozy starter, this soup is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients.

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The secret to this soup's depth lies in the aromatic base of sautéed onions, celery, and carrots. As they soften, they release a sweetness that complements the subtle bitterness of the brassicas, while dried thyme and oregano weave through the broth to provide a fragrant, herbal finish. The addition of homemade croutons adds that essential crunch that makes every spoonful exciting.

Ingredients

• Vegetables: 1 medium head cauliflower (cut into florets), 1 medium head broccoli (cut into florets), 1 medium onion (diced), 2 celery stalks (diced), 2 medium carrots (diced), 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• Liquids: 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth, 1 cup (240 ml) milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
• Spices & Seasoning: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Croutons: 2 cups cubed crusty bread, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, pinch of salt
• Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Croutons

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden and crisp. Set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots; sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, thyme, and oregano; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Stir in cauliflower and broccoli florets, and cook for 2–3 minutes. Pour in vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

4. Blend and Season

Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend soup until smooth and creamy (or blend in batches in a stand blender). Stir in milk, season with salt and pepper. Gently reheat if needed.

5. Garnish and Serve

Ladle soup into bowls, top with croutons, parsley, and cheese if using. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, use an immersion blender to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency without the hassle of transferring hot liquid. If you want to elevate the flavor profile even further, follow the note to add a pinch of nutmeg during the final seasoning stage; it adds a wonderful, subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the cauliflower.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable. To make it strictly vegan, use a plant-based milk and omit the cheese. For those with gluten sensitivities, simply swap the bread for a gluten-free variety when making the croutons. If you are looking for an even richer experience, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Serviervorschläge

Ladle the hot soup into deep ceramic bowls and be generous with the toppings. The fresh parsley adds a pop of color, while the Parmesan provides a savory bite. According to the notes, a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc makes for an excellent wine pairing, cutting through the creaminess of the soup beautifully.

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This Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup is more than just a meal; it is a bowl of pure comfort. Simple to prepare yet elegantly flavorful, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen whenever you need a healthy, warming dish to brighten a gray day. Enjoy every creamy, crunchy spoonful!

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup keeps beautifully for 3-4 days when refrigerated in an airtight container. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed to adjust consistency.

→ How do I achieve the smoothest texture?

An immersion blender works perfectly right in the pot. For extra silkiness, blend thoroughly until no vegetable pieces remain. If using a stand blender, work in batches and vent carefully to avoid steam buildup.

→ What vegetables work as additions?

Potatoes add extra creaminess, while a zucchini or bell pepper introduces subtle sweetness. Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes for color and nutrients without altering the classic flavor profile.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Freeze without the milk for best results—add fresh milk when reheating. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stovetop.

→ How do I make the croutons extra crispy?

Use day-old crusty bread for best texture. Cut into uniform cubes, coat evenly with oil and seasoning, and spread in a single layer without overcrowding the baking sheet. Watch closely during the last few minutes to achieve perfect golden color.

→ What herbs complement this soup best?

Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage enhance the earthy vegetables beautifully. Add fresh herbs at the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors. A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the creamy base.