This Roasted Cauliflower Soup is a delightful dish that offers a warm embrace of Mediterranean spices. Perfect for cozy evenings, it’s creamy yet light, making it suitable for any occasion, from family dinners to elegant gatherings. The unique combination of flavors will surprise and delight your taste buds, ensuring this soup becomes a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- flavors: The Mediterranean spices infuse the soup with warmth and depth.
- Creamy texture: Made with whole milk, this soup maintains a rich creaminess without being overly heavy.
- Easy to prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in under 75 minutes.
- Versatile servings: This recipe makes six hearty servings, perfect for sharing or meal prepping.
- Healthy ingredients: Packed with vegetables and nutrients, this soup is both tasty and nutritious.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to create the perfect roasted cauliflower soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large sheet pan
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven
- Immersion blender (or standard blender)
- Chopping knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large sheet pan: Provides ample space for roasting cauliflower evenly without overcrowding.
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven: Ensures even heat distribution while simmering the soup.
- Immersion blender: Allows for easy blending directly in the pot without needing to transfer hot liquids.
Ingredients
This roasted cauliflower soup features fresh ingredients that elevate its flavor profile. Gather these items before you start cooking:
- 2 heads of cauliflower (about 4 pounds)
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 32 ounces (4 cups) low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or unseasoned plant-based milk of choice
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 cup chopped fresh dill
How to Make Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Step 1: Get Ready
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut the cauliflower in half from top to bottom through the stem. Use a knife to slice off each floret and ensure larger pieces are cut into smaller ones for even roasting.
Step 2: Season the Cauliflower
Transfer the cauliflower florets to a large sheet pan. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil. Toss everything together until well-coated, then spread evenly on the pan without overlapping.
Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower
Roast your seasoned cauliflower in the oven for about 45 minutes, turning at around 25 minutes. You want it tender with deep browning in some areas. Once done, remove it from the oven.
Step 4: Sauté the Onions
In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (about seven minutes). Stir in garlic, ground cumin, sweet paprika, sumac, and turmeric; cook just until fragrant (about one minute).
Step 5: Simmer
Add three-quarters of the roasted cauliflower to your pot (reserve some for later). Stir well so all florets are coated with spices. Pour in vegetable broth and one cup of water. Bring everything to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cover partially. Let it simmer until slightly thickened (around five to seven minutes).
Step 6: Blend
Uncover your pot and remove it from heat briefly. Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until you reach your desired smoothness—keeping some chunks adds texture! Alternatively, transfer to a standard blender carefully.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Return your blended soup to medium heat. Stir in whole milk or plant-based milk, lemon juice, and reserved cauliflower pieces. Warm through while adjusting seasoning as needed. Finally, stir in chopped dill before serving hot.
Enjoy your flavorful bowl of roasted cauliflower soup!
How to Serve Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Roasted cauliflower soup is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or paired with other dishes, here are some creative serving suggestions.
With Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. The texture contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the soup.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkling fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top adds a burst of color and freshness. Dill complements the flavors of the roasted cauliflower nicely.
Topped with Croutons
- Homemade or store-bought croutons provide an enjoyable crunch. Season them with garlic and herbs for extra flavor.
Served in Bread Bowls
- For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks impressive but also allows you to enjoy the bread as you finish your meal.
Drizzled with Olive Oil
- A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving enhances the flavor profile and adds richness.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- Pairing the soup with a light side salad adds freshness and balances the warmth of the soup. A simple mixed greens salad works well.
How to Perfect Roasted Cauliflower Soup
To achieve the best flavor and texture for your roasted cauliflower soup, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cauliflower and herbs enhance the overall taste of your soup.
- Don’t rush roasting: Take your time when roasting cauliflower to develop its deep flavors; aim for golden brown edges.
- Control consistency: Adjust blending time based on your preference for smoothness; blend longer for a creamier texture.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor balance.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or seeds for added crunch, or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
- Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.
Best Side Dishes for Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Roasted cauliflower soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:
Garlic Bread
Classic garlic bread adds crunch and flavor, perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches provide comfort and indulgence, making them an ideal pairing.Roasted Vegetables
A medley of roasted vegetables brings out more earthy flavors while adding color to your meal.Stuffed Peppers
These can be filled with grains or beans, making them hearty companions that balance the lightness of your soup.Simple Green Salad
A basic green salad dressed lightly allows the flavors of the roasted cauliflower soup to shine through without overpowering them.Pita Chips
Crunchy pita chips add texture, making them fun to dip into your creamy bowl of goodness.Cheese Platter
An assortment of cheeses alongside crackers can create an inviting appetizer spread before enjoying your warm bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Roasted Cauliflower Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish.
- Improperly cutting cauliflower: Cutting the cauliflower into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent roasting. Ensure all florets are similar in size for even cooking.
- Neglecting seasoning: Skipping or under-seasoning the cauliflower before roasting can result in a bland soup. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper!
- Overcooking garlic: Garlic can turn bitter if cooked too long. Add it after the onions are translucent and cook just until fragrant.
- Not blending enough: If you prefer a smooth texture, be sure to blend thoroughly. An immersion blender works great for achieving your desired consistency.
- Forgetting to adjust flavors: Every ingredient matters! Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Roasted Cauliflower Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Roasted Cauliflower Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F; heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding Roasted Cauliflower Soup that might help you.
Can I make Roasted Cauliflower Soup vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute whole milk with your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
How can I enhance the flavor of my Roasted Cauliflower Soup?
You can add more spices like chili powder or cayenne pepper for a kick, or incorporate herbs like thyme and rosemary for added depth.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
What should I serve with Roasted Cauliflower Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You could also enjoy it as a starter before a main meal.
How do I store leftover Roasted Cauliflower Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Cauliflower Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich flavors combined with creamy texture make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Give this recipe a try for a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!
Roasted Cauliflower Soup
Roasted Cauliflower Soup is a warm and inviting dish that blends the creamy texture of cauliflower with the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean spices. Perfect for cozy evenings, this soup strikes a balance between indulgence and lightness, making it suitable for everything from family dinners to elegant gatherings. The roasted cauliflower creates an irresistible depth of flavor, while fresh herbs add a touch of brightness. Easy to prepare in under 75 minutes, this recipe yields six hearty servings, making it ideal for sharing or meal prepping. Dive into a bowl of comfort that promises to become a staple in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 heads of cauliflower (about 4 pounds)
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 1/2 teaspoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground sumac
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 32 ounces low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups whole milk or plant-based milk
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 cup chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Cut cauliflower into florets and place on a large sheet pan.
- Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and drizzle with olive oil; toss to coat evenly.
- Roast for about 45 minutes until tender and browned, turning halfway through.
- In a heavy pot over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent; add garlic and spices.
- Stir in three-quarters of the roasted cauliflower; pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened; blend until smooth using an immersion blender.
- Return soup to heat, stir in milk and reserved cauliflower pieces; adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240ml)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
