Cauliflower soup has been a staple in many households, especially in regions where this versatile vegetable is abundant. The recipe for roasted cauliflower soup dates back to the early 20th century when roasting vegetables became a popular method to enhance their flavors. Roasting cauliflower caramelizes its natural sugars, giving the soup a deep, rich flavor that is both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
To make this Healthy Roasted Cauliflower Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a cheesy variation)
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and tender, turning once halfway through.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
- In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the roasted cauliflower to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches.
- Once blended, return the soup to the pot (if using a regular blender).
Step 4: Add Creaminess
- Stir in the almond milk, ground cumin, and smoked paprika.
- Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
Tips and Variations
- Spicy Roasted Cauliflower Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Healthy Roasted Cauliflower Soup without Cream: The almond milk provides a creamy texture without the need for cream. You can also use coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
- Healthy Roasted Cauliflower Soup Vegetarian: This recipe is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan option, ensure that any toppings or garnishes used are also plant-based.
- Cauliflower Soup Jamie Oliver: For a Jamie Oliver-inspired twist, add a handful of fresh spinach leaves during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added color and nutrients.
- Healthy Roasted Cauliflower Soup with Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hesitate to stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese just before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here is the basic nutritional information per serving of this Healthy Roasted Cauliflower Soup:
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
This Healthy Roasted Cauliflower Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or a nutritious starter, this soup fits the bill. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. So why not give it a try? We’re confident it will become a favorite in your household.