Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Hello! This time I have a recipe for you where comfort meets nourishment! Today, I'm excited to share one of my favorite go-to recipes for those Spring rainy evenings: Creamy Roasted Cauliflower Soup. This creamy, nutty, velvety soup is not only incredibly satisfying and delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling nourished from the inside out. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, grab your apron and let's dive into the kitchen to whip up a bowl of warmth and wellness!
I like cauliflower because it’s such a versatile and delicious veggie. This amazing vegetable can be eaten raw, cooked, roasted, grilled, baked into a pizza crust, or used as a substitute for rice or mash potatoes for a low-carb diet. This delicious soup will not only be a treat for your palate but also for your body, mind and soul.
Health Benefits:
Cauliflower is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as folate and fiber. It also contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and promote heart and bone health. Research has found that the compounds in cauliflower and other cruciferous vegetables may be associated with lower risk of certain cancers.
Onions and garlic are packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They also support immune function and digestive health.
Vegetable broth provides hydration and adds depth of flavor to the soup without adding extra calories or fat.
Coconut milk adds creaminess to the soup while also providing healthy fats that can support brain health and boost metabolism.
Olive oil is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley not only add flavor to your food but they contain fiber, vitamin K, C, A, and Folate, these herbs are a potent antioxidant, help control blood sugar, strengthen your bones, and reduce inflammation.
Ingredients:
1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
1 medium red onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk (optional)
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, or more if needed
Scant ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish, parsley, cilantro or oregano
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the cauliflower florets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Reserve some of the prettiest roasted cauliflower florets for garnish. Add the roasted cauliflower florets to the pot, along with the vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches until smooth. Add the butter and blend until smooth. Add the lemon juice and nutmeg and blend again. Add additional salt, to taste (I usually add another ¼ to ¾ teaspoon, depending on the broth). This soup tastes amazing when it’s properly salted!
Return the soup to the pot and stir in the coconut milk (optional). Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with the roasted cauliflower florets and fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Sources:
American Institute for Cancer Research (https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/food-facts/cauliflower-full-of-vitamin-c-and-health-protective-compounds/)
Onion and Garlic: Healthline (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/onion-benefits
Parsley & Cilantro: Livestrong (https://www.livestrong.com/article/464325-what-are-the-benefits-of-parsley-cilantro/)
Cauliflower Health Benefits: Medical News Today (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/282844)
