Roasted Cauliflower Soup

This Roasted Cauliflower Soup is a delicious way to elevate a humble vegetable into a cozy, satisfying dish. Roasting the cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that will make this soup a new favorite. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare and can easily be made vegan or dairy-free!

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the cauliflower is golden and tender.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Add the roasted cauliflower to the pot along with the vegetable broth, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using).
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

1. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. (Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches—be careful with hot liquids!)

Step 5: Add Creaminess

1. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

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Tips for Success

• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
• Texture Variations: Reserve a few roasted cauliflower florets to use as a garnish for texture.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

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Why You’ll Love It

This Roasted Cauliflower Soup is creamy, flavorful, and comforting while being light and nutritious. It’s perfect as a starter or a main course, especially when paired with a fresh salad or warm bread. Plus, it’s versatile—easily customizable for any dietary preference.