Roasted Cauliflower Soup

This Roasted Cauliflower Soup is a delightful blend of Mediterranean spices, offering a warm and vibrant depth of flavor. Its creamy texture, thanks to whole milk, makes it comforting without being too heavy. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for any dinner party, this soup stands out with its fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Flavorful: The Mediterranean spices elevate the taste, making each spoonful rich and satisfying.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main course or as an appetizer; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from cauliflower and herbs, this soup is a wholesome choice.
• Creamy Without Guilt: Made with whole milk or plant-based alternatives, you get the creaminess without excessive heaviness.

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Tools and Preparation

Preparing this soup requires just a few essential tools that make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large sheet pan
• Heavy pot or Dutch oven
• Immersion blender
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large sheet pan: Essential for roasting the cauliflower evenly and achieving that perfect caramelization.
• Heavy pot or Dutch oven: Helps distribute heat uniformly while simmering the soup, ensuring even cooking.
• Immersion blender: Makes blending easy right in the pot without transferring hot liquids to another container.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 heads of cauliflower (about 4 pounds)
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Extra virgin olive oil

Aromatics and Spices

• 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

Liquid Ingredients

• 32 ounces (4 cups) low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cups whole milk or unseasoned, unsweetened plant-based milk of choice
• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Fresh Herbs

• 1 cup chopped fresh dill

How to Make Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Cut the cauliflower in half from top to bottom through the stem. Use your knife to slice off each floret. Ensure all florets are about the same size by cutting larger ones into smaller pieces.

Step 2: Season the Cauliflower

Transfer the cauliflower florets onto a large sheet pan. Sprinkle them generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Toss everything together until well-coated and spread evenly on the pan.

Step 3: Roast the Cauliflower

Roast in the oven for about 45 minutes, turning halfway through (around 25 minutes). You want the cauliflower to be tender and browned in some areas. Remove from the oven when done.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions

In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, around 7 minutes. Then add garlic, cumin, paprika, sumac, and turmeric; stir until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Step 5: Simmer

Add three-fourths of the roasted cauliflower (reserve some for garnish). Stir well so that it coats with spices. Pour in vegetable broth and one cup of water. Raise heat until it boils; then reduce to medium heat and cover partially. Simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Blend

Remove from heat temporarily. Using an immersion blender, blend until you reach your desired smoothness—some prefer it chunky while others like it completely smooth. If using a standard blender or food processor, ensure plenty of room at the top to prevent spills.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Return your blended mixture to medium heat. Stir in whole milk (or plant-based milk), lemon juice, and reserved roasted cauliflower. Heat briefly until warmed through. Adjust salt if necessary before stirring in fresh dill. Serve hot for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Roasted cauliflower soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a main course or a starter, this creamy soup pairs well with many accompaniments.

With Crusty Bread

• A thick slice of sourdough or whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. The crusty exterior and soft interior complement the creamy texture.

Topped with Croutons

• Add crunchy homemade or store-bought croutons for extra texture. They provide a delightful contrast to the smooth soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors. It adds richness and an inviting aroma to each bowl.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs like parsley or additional dill provide a burst of color and freshness. Sprinkle them on top right before serving for added appeal.

Served with a Salad

• Pair your soup with a light salad, such as a Mediterranean chickpea salad. The freshness of the salad balances the heartiness of the soup.

How to Perfect Roasted Cauliflower Soup

To make your roasted cauliflower soup even better, consider these tips for achieving optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cauliflower, onions, and herbs enhance the taste significantly. Avoid wilted or old vegetables for the best results.

• Roast cauliflower well: Ensure the cauliflower is nicely browned before adding it to the pot. This caramelization adds depth of flavor to your soup.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup as you cook and adjust salt and spices accordingly. Balancing flavors is key to a delicious outcome.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like toasted pine nuts or feta cheese for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Pairing your roasted cauliflower soup with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the soup perfectly while providing satisfying crunch.

2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad features quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese—ideal for balancing the richness of the soup.

3. Stuffed Peppers: Hearty stuffed peppers filled with grains and vegetables add a filling side that harmonizes well with the smoothness of the soup.

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing; gooey grilled cheese sandwiches are perfect for dunking into your roasted cauliflower soup.

5. Vegetable Crudité Platter: Fresh, crisp vegetables served with hummus offer a light and healthy contrast to the creamy soup.

6. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips are fun to dip into your soup while adding an extra layer of flavor from spices like za’atar or paprika.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Roasted Cauliflower Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If you place too much cauliflower on one pan, it can steam instead of roast. Spread the florets evenly or use two pans to ensure even browning.

• Not Seasoning Enough: A lack of seasoning can lead to bland soup. Make sure to generously season your cauliflower with salt and pepper before roasting for maximum flavor.

• Skipping the Blend: Failing to blend the soup properly can result in an undesirable texture. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a stand blender until you achieve your preferred smoothness.

• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Skipping fresh herbs like dill at the end can diminish the flavor profile. Always add fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of freshness.

• Using High-Sodium Broth: Using regular broth can make your soup too salty. Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth so you can control the saltiness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Roasted Cauliflower Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Roasted Cauliflower Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Roasted Cauliflower Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Roasted Cauliflower Soup:

Can I make Roasted Cauliflower Soup vegan?

Yes! You can substitute whole milk with unsweetened plant-based milk for a vegan version of this creamy soup.

How do I enhance the flavor of Roasted Cauliflower Soup?

Consider adding spices such as cayenne pepper or curry powder for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

Can I use frozen cauliflower instead?

Definitely! You can use frozen cauliflower; just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before roasting.

What should I serve with Roasted Cauliflower Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Roasted Cauliflower Soup is perfect for meal prep and freezes well, making it great for future meals.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Cauliflower Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that is both comforting and versatile. It’s perfect for cozy nights or as part of a larger meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or toppings like croutons or extra herbs. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its rich taste!