Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Imagine wrapping your fingers around a warm bowl of Roasted Cauliflower Soup, the aroma of caramelized garlic and earthy spices wafting up to greet you. This delightful soup transforms humble cauliflower into a creamy, velvety comfort that feels indulgent yet light—perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings with friends.

What sets this Roasted Cauliflower Soup apart is its delightful balance of flavors; the roasted cauliflower adds a nutty sweetness, while a hint of aromatic herbs makes every sip irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave something nourishing and satisfying.

Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply wanting a warm hug in a bowl on a chilly day, this soup will become a staple in your kitchen. In this article, you’ll discover the easy steps to create this deliciousness, along with tips to customize it to your taste. Get ready to elevate your soup game and delight your senses!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cauliflower Soup

This cozy, creamy soup is not only a delight for your taste buds but also checks all the boxes for a healthy meal!

  • Quick and easy — Ready in about 30 minutes, making it a stress-free option for busy weeknights.
  • Budge-friendly — Uses inexpensive ingredients that are staples in most kitchens.
  • Vegan and gluten-free — Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy a bowl.
  • Kid-approved — With its smooth texture and delightful flavor, even picky eaters will love it.
  • Impressive for guests — Serve this elegant soup for a dinner party and leave everyone raving.
  • Perfect for meal prep — Make a big batch and store it for tasty lunches or dinners throughout the week.
  • Minimal cleanup — One pot is all you need, allowing for a quick cook and easy cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Soup

  • 1 large head of cauliflower (about 2 pounds, trimmed and chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (chopped)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream)

For the Garnish (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Equipment Needed

  • Large baking sheet (for roasting cauliflower)
  • High-speed blender or immersion blender (for smooth soup texture)
  • Medium saucepan (for simmering broth)
  • Cutting board (for chopping vegetables)
  • Chef’s knife (for cutting cauliflower and aromatics)
  • Measuring cups and spoons (for precise ingredient measurement)
  • Wooden spoon (for stirring soup)
  • Fine mesh strainer (optional, for extra smooth consistency)

How to Make Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Prepare the Cauliflower

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Cut the cauliflower. Remove the leaves and stem, then break the cauliflower into florets, about 1-2 inches in size.
  3. Toss florets with oil. In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower florets with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Roast the cauliflower. Spread the florets in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and tender, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Prepare the Soup Base

  1. Cook the aromatics. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add the broth. Pour in 4 cups (950 ml) of vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  3. Add roasted cauliflower. Once the broth is simmering, add the roasted cauliflower to the pot. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Blend and Serve

  1. Blend the soup. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, transfer batches to a countertop blender, but be careful with the hot liquid.
  2. Adjust seasoning. Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if needed. For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream or coconut milk.
  3. Serve hot. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips for the Best Roasted Cauliflower Soup

  • Choose fresh cauliflower — Look for firm, compact heads with no brown spots for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t rush the roasting — Roast your cauliflower until it’s golden and slightly caramelized; this adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
  • Use vegetable stock — Consider swapping out water for vegetable stock instead. It enhances the soup’s richness without adding calories.
  • Add creaminess with cashews — For a vegan option, blend soaked cashews into the soup for a creamy texture instead of heavy cream.
  • Spice it up — For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne during cooking to elevate the heat level.
  • Make it ahead — This soup stores well in the fridge for up to three days; just reheat gently, adding a splash of water to thin if necessary.

Variations to Try

  • Herb-infused version — Stir in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary towards the end of cooking for an aromatic twist.
  • Curried cauliflower soup — Add 1-2 tablespoons of curry powder while sautéing the onions to introduce warm, exotic flavors.
  • Cheesy upgrade — Mix in grated Parmesan during blending for a savory, cheesy note that complements the cauliflower.
  • Roasted garlic addition — Roast a bulb of garlic along with the cauliflower and blend it into the soup for a mellow, sweet garlic flavor.

How to Store Roasted Cauliflower Soup

Room Temperature: Roasted cauliflower soup should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: The soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or sealable bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. For easy serving, freeze in portion sizes.

How to Reheat

To reheat, microwave for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, or warm on the stovetop over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. If using the oven, cover with foil and heat at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

Make-Ahead Tips

For meal prep, roast the cauliflower and prepare the soup base in advance. Store the blended soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before serving.

Nutrition Information

Estimated values per serving. Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.

Serving Size 1 cup
Calories 150 kcal
Total Fat 8g
Saturated Fat 2g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 4g
Sugar 3g
Protein 5g
Sodium 300mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?

Yes, you can easily substitute vegetable stock for chicken stock in this recipe to keep it vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make the soup dairy-free, simply replace the cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. This adds a subtle sweetness and maintains a creamy texture.

What’s the best way to store leftover roasted cauliflower soup?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months.

Can I double this recipe for more servings?

Absolutely! You can double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just ensure that your pot is big enough to accommodate the increased volume while cooking.

Why did my soup turn out watery?

If your soup is watery, it could be due to adding too much stock or not roasting the cauliflower long enough to concentrate its flavors. Try simmering it longer to thicken, or blend in some additional roasted cauliflower for a thicker texture.

What goes well with roasted cauliflower soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a light sandwich. Consider adding a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of roasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving, and consider adding a splash of stock or water if it thickens too much in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Cauliflower Soup is a delightful dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with rich flavors. It’s not only easy to prepare but also makes for a comforting meal on chilly evenings or an elegant starter for gatherings. This nutritious soup is perfect for impressing guests or just enjoying a cozy meal at home.

We invite you to give this recipe a try! We’d love to hear how it turns out for you—please leave a comment or rating below. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with friends and on social media. And if you’re a fan, consider bookmarking this recipe for your next cooking adventure. Enjoy every spoonful!

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