Description
Silky “Cheddar Cauliflower & Roasted Garlic Soup” delivers comfort in a bowl, promising rich flavors that dance between earthy and sharp. Smooth cheese and tender cauliflower create a luxurious experience you’ll savor down to the last spoonful.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Aromatics and Seasonings:
- 1 head garlic
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish (Optional):
- Croutons
- Extra cheese
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the oven for roasting by setting the temperature to 400F (200C), creating an ideal environment for caramelizing vegetables.
- Prepare cauliflower by breaking it into evenly sized florets, ensuring uniform cooking and optimal texture.
- Coat cauliflower florets with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper, which will enhance the natural flavors during roasting.
- Arrange the seasoned cauliflower on a baking sheet in a single layer, allowing each piece to receive direct heat and develop a golden-brown exterior.
- Prepare the garlic head by carefully slicing off the top, exposing the cloves and allowing for easier roasting and flavor development.
- Drizzle the exposed garlic head with a light layer of olive oil to promote even caramelization and prevent excessive drying.
- Wrap the prepared garlic head completely in aluminum foil, creating a protective packet that will steam and soften the cloves.
- Place the foil-wrapped garlic alongside the cauliflower on the same baking sheet to streamline the roasting process.
- Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, monitoring their progress to achieve a tender cauliflower with light browning and a soft, caramelized garlic head.
Notes
- Customize the soup’s thickness by adjusting the amount of vegetable or chicken broth for a personalized consistency.
- Enhance the roasted flavors by toasting whole spices like cumin or coriander seeds before adding them to the soup for deeper, more complex notes.
- Transform this dish into a vegan-friendly option by substituting dairy cheddar with nutritional yeast or plant-based cheese alternatives for similar rich, tangy flavor.
- Elevate the soup’s texture and nutrition by garnishing with crispy roasted cauliflower florets, toasted pumpkin seeds, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added crunch and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg