Creamy Cauliflower Soup Recipe (Vellutata di Cavolfiore)
Cauliflower soup is a velvety, comforting dish that makes the perfect starter for any meal. With its creamy texture and delicate flavors, it’s an ideal way to enjoy a hearty vegetable-based dish. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making a flavorful, smooth cauliflower soup, perfect for a cozy evening or an elegant dinner party.
Recipe Overview
- Category: Soups
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cauliflower | 740g |
| Potatoes | 740g |
| Black pepper (ground) | To taste |
| Salt (fine) | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Chives | 1 bunch |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves |
| Butter | 30g |
| Leeks | 110g |
| Water | 1 liter |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Begin by washing the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the potatoes and cut them into small chunks (about 1–2 cm).
- Next, remove the green parts from the leek and slice the white part into thin rings.
- Wash the cauliflower and remove the tough outer leaves. Slice off the base of the cauliflower head, then break the florets into smaller pieces.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter along with two tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Once the butter has melted, crush the garlic cloves using a garlic press (or finely chop them) and add them to the pan. Sauté the garlic until it becomes golden and aromatic.
- Add the sliced leeks to the pan and sauté them until they become soft and translucent.
Step 3: Add the Cauliflower and Potatoes
- Add the cauliflower florets and potato chunks to the saucepan, stirring to coat them in the butter and oil mixture.
- Season with a pinch of black pepper to taste, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in 1 liter of water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the vegetables cook for about 20 minutes over low heat, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
- Once the vegetables are fully cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. You can adjust the texture by adding more water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Finely chop the chives and sprinkle them over the soup for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 7: Serve
- Ladle the creamy cauliflower soup into bowls and serve hot. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and top with grated Parmesan cheese or serve with toasted bread cubes for added texture.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 26g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Tips for Success
- Texture: If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can pulse the soup a few times with the blender, leaving some pieces of cauliflower and potatoes intact.
- Flavor Boost: For a more pronounced flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: This soup is naturally vegetarian, but if you’re looking for a dairy-free version, simply swap the butter with plant-based margarine or olive oil.
- Serving Ideas: For a more filling meal, serve the soup with a side of freshly baked bread or add a protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Conclusion
This creamy cauliflower soup is a simple yet elegant dish that is sure to impress anyone at your table. The natural sweetness of the cauliflower combined with the richness of the potatoes creates a comforting, velvety texture that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Whether enjoyed on its own or with some crusty bread, this soup is sure to be a hit with your family or guests.
Enjoy making this delicious Vellutata di Cavolfiore as a first course or a light meal, and relish the comforting warmth and flavors it brings to your table!
