Hearty Vegetable Noodle Soup with Homemade Garlic Parmesan Croutons

Discover this comforting, nutrient-rich vegetable noodle soup that combines fresh vegetables, delicate vermicelli, and aromatic herbs. Topped with crispy homemade garlic Parmesan croutons, this soup offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. A warming meal that’s both healthy and satisfying!

Ingredients

For the Soup

  • 3 medium potatoes (450g/1 lb), peeled and cubed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1 head broccoli (300g/10.5 oz), cut into florets
  • 30g (1 oz) vermicelli noodles
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
  • 2 liters (8.5 cups) water
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Croutons

  • 3 slices bread, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base
  • Fill a large pot with water
  • Add cubed potatoes
  • Bring to boil, covered
  1. Sauté Vegetables
  • Heat olive oil in a pan
  • Sauté onion until translucent (3-4 minutes)
  • Add celery and carrots, cook 3-5 minutes
  • Add bell pepper, cook additional 3-5 minutes
  • Add garlic and tomato
  • Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes
  1. Combine and Cook
  • Add sautéed vegetables to boiling potatoes
  • Add broccoli florets
  • Add vermicelli
  • Simmer for 5 minutes
  • Garnish with fresh dill
  1. Make the Croutons
  • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
  • Cube bread
  • Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, red pepper, salt
  • Sprinkle with Parmesan
  • Bake for 10 minutes until golden

Nutritional Information

(Per serving – serves 6)

  • Calories: 245
  • Protein: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Pro Tips and Tricks

  • Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking
  • Don’t overcook the broccoli to maintain nutrients
  • Make extra croutons for future use
  • Use homemade vegetable stock for deeper flavor
  • Add vegetables in order of cooking time needed

Variations and Substitutions

  • Use any short pasta instead of vermicelli
  • Add white beans for extra protein
  • Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes
  • Use different seasonal vegetables
  • Make gluten-free by using GF bread for croutons

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this soup ahead?
A: Yes, but add noodles when reheating.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, without noodles and croutons.

Q: Is this soup vegetarian?
A: Yes, just ensure Parmesan is vegetarian.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Store soup and croutons separately
  • Refrigerate soup for up to 3 days
  • Freeze soup for up to 3 months
  • Store croutons in airtight container for 1 week
  • Reheat soup gently on stovetop

This vegetable noodle soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, tender noodles, and crunchy homemade croutons makes this soup a complete meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a comforting dinner, this versatile soup will become a favorite in your recipe collection.