Description
A delightful Mediterranean take on traditional cauliflower soup, infused with fresh herbs and a touch of citrus for a creamy texture that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large head cauliflower (about 2 pounds), cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Crumbled feta cheese (for serving)
- Fresh herb sprigs (for garnish)
- Toasted pine nuts (for garnish)
- Crusty bread drizzled with olive oil (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add cauliflower florets, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Cook for 3-4 minutes until well coated.
- Pour in vegetable broth and water, ensuring cauliflower is covered by about an inch. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently.
- Cover and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the cauliflower is tender.
- Remove bay leaves and allow the soup to cool slightly. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender. Stir in fresh lemon juice and adjust seasoning.
- Ladle soup into bowls, drizzle with olive oil, and top with feta, fresh herbs, or toasted pine nuts before serving.
Notes
Season gradually for the best flavor. Use high-quality olive oil for optimal taste. This soup is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by omitting the feta.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg