Are you craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful soup that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This easy garlic soup recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Packed with the pungent goodness of garlic, this healthy meal is surprisingly light yet deeply satisfying. It's a delicious dish that's both simple and impressive, making it a winner for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Get ready to experience a burst of garlicky goodness with every spoonful!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 8 cloves garlic, minced (about 1/4 cup)
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional, for a creamier soup)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
-
Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the soup bitter.
-
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
-
Blend (Optional): If you prefer a smoother soup, carefully use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Remember to vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
-
Stir in Cream (Optional): If using, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of simmering. This will add a luxurious creaminess to the soup.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the garlic soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley and a slice of crusty bread for dipping, if desired. This simple addition elevates the overall dining experience.
Cooking Tips for the Best Garlic Soup:
- Don't burn the garlic: Low and slow is the key to perfectly cooked garlic. High heat will lead to bitterness.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or thyme depending on your preference.
- Add other vegetables: Enhance your soup with other vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach. Add them along with the onions.
- Make it vegan: Simply omit the heavy cream or use a plant-based alternative like coconut milk for a delicious vegan garlic soup.
Variations:
- Spicy Garlic Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Roasted Garlic Soup: Use roasted garlic cloves for an even deeper, sweeter garlic flavor. Roast the garlic heads at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes until soft.
- Creamy Tomato Garlic Soup: Add a can of diced tomatoes along with the broth for a delicious twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cream):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: Approximately 5g
- Protein: Approximately 5g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20g
This easy garlic soup recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy!