Description
A cozy and creamy vegetable soup made with starchy vegetables and herbs for flavor without a lot of cream. Perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (For flavor and richness.)
- 1 tablespoon Butter (For flavor.)
- 1 cup Chopped onion (Classic flavor base.)
- 1 cup Chopped carrot (Adds sweetness.)
- 1 cup Chopped celery (Adds familiar soup flavor.)
- 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh is best here.)
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Chopped potatoes (Yukon gold or russet for creaminess.)
- 1 cup Chopped cauliflower (Optional, but adds body.)
- 1 cup Vegetable broth (Use low-sodium for control.)
- 1 cup Milk or half-and-half (For creaminess.)
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (Stir in off heat for tang.)
Seasoning and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (For flavor.)
- 1 bay leaf Bay leaf (Flavor enhancer.)
- 1 pinch Italian seasoning (For added flavor.)
- Salt Salt and pepper to taste (Season as you go.)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup Shredded cheese (Parmesan or mild cheddar.)
- 1 cup Frozen peas or corn (For color and sweetness.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Warm a splash of olive oil and a small pat of butter in a heavy pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until soft and glossy, about 6 to 8 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Stir in chopped garlic for 30 seconds.
Cooking
- Add chopped potatoes, cauliflower, and any firm veggies like bell pepper. Sprinkle in thyme and a pinch of Italian seasoning.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add a bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Scoop out 2 to 3 cups of the soup and blend until smooth. Add it back to the pot for instant creaminess.
- Stir in the milk or half-and-half. If using delicate veggies like spinach or peas, add them now and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes.
Final Touches
- Off the heat, swirl in Greek yogurt. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. If desired, finish with a handful of Parmesan or mild cheddar.
Notes
Thickening: Blend more of the soup for thickness, add a few extra potatoes or use a milk and cornstarch slurry. For thinning, add warm broth gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: dinner, Soup
- Cuisine: American