Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that showcases the often-underappreciated Brussels sprout. This creamy Soup is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner option or a unique starter for a gathering, this soup is sure to impress.

Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup: Easy and Delicious Recipes

When the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup is not only easy to make, but it also packs a nutritious punch! Whether you're a Brussels sprout enthusiast or a newcomer to this underrated vegetable, this creamy Soup will captivate your taste buds. Here’s an overview of the simple ingredients, health benefits, storage tips, and more!

What is in Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup?

Creating a delicious Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup requires just a handful of wholesome ingredients:

• Olive Oil: This healthy fat is ideal for sautéing and adds a rich flavor to the soup.
• Chopped Onion: A savory base that enhances the soup’s overall flavor.
• Sliced Leek: For a subtle sweetness and delicate onion flavor, leeks are a wonderful addition.
• Minced Garlic: Nothing beats the aromatic punch that garlic brings to your dishes!
• Chopped Celery: For crunch and additional depth of flavor.
• Diced Carrot: Adds a hint of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Diced Zucchini: Keeps the soup light and adds moisture.
• Frozen Brussels Sprouts: The star of the show! They are nutritious, affordable, and easy to use.
• Water: Just enough to cover the vegetables and create a lovely broth.
• Processed Cheese (Velveeta): Adds creaminess and a hint of savory goodness.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.

This delicious mix ensures that your soup is not only creamy and flavorful but also filled with nutrients.

Health Benefits

Brussels sprouts are nutritional powerhouses. They are high in vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and fiber, making them great for digestion and overall health. Incorporating Brussels sprouts into your diet has been linked to lower cholesterol levels and improved heart health. Moreover, this soup boasts a variety of other vegetables, increasing your intake of vitamins and minerals while providing a rich source of antioxidants. This makes Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup a wholesome choice for boosting your immune system, particularly during the winter months.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the beauties of soup is that it can be made ahead of time. Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup actually tastes better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are a few storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

What to Serve with Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup

This soup makes for a comforting meal on its own, but adding a side can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful pairings:

• Crusty Bread or Baguette: Perfect for dipping!
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combo that never goes out of style.
• Side Salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing balance.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted root vegetables for extra flavor and texture.

Recommended Tools to Make This Recipe

To whip up your Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup, here are a few handy tools:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ideal for sautéing and simmering the soup.
• Blender or Immersion Blender: To achieve that creamy, smooth consistency.
• Chopping Board & Knife: For preparing all your fresh ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Ladle: For serving your delicious soup with ease.

Variations

While the classic Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup is a delight, you can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations to try:

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for an extra kick.
• Roasted Garlic: Roast 2-3 cloves of garlic before mincing them for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
• Smoked Paprika: Add a smoky depth with a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Nutritional Boost: Add a handful of chopped kale or spinach for an extra dose of greens.
• Vegan Version: Replace the Velveeta with a vegan alternative or use a non-dairy milk.
• Creamy Cauliflower: Add some steamed cauliflower to the soup for added creaminess and nutrition.
• Bacon or Pancetta: Add some crispy bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Crusty Bread or Croutons: Serve with crusty bread or croutons for dipping into the savory broth.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect match for this comforting soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts add a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Serve with garlic breadsticks for a fun and easy snack.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra soup, proper storage is key:

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed for consistency.
• Freezing for Later: To freeze, ladle cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for about three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove, adding a little water or broth if necessary.

Helpful Tips

To ensure your Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Save time by chopping vegetables ahead of cooking. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator for ease on cooking day.
• Sautéing Technique: Sauté your onions and leeks until they become translucent; this enhances the flavor base of your soup.
• Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend less of it, or you can add a spoonful of cornstarch mixed in a little cold water to the simmering soup until it thickens.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning as necessary! After adding salt and pepper, taste the soup and adjust according to your preference. Every palate is different!

Cream of Brussels Sprout Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that is both sophisticated and satisfying. This recipe not only highlights the unique flavor of Brussels sprouts but also offers a comforting option for chilly days. With its creamy texture and savory taste, this Soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it as a starter or a main dish, and relish in the delightful combination of flavors.

More Delicious Soups to Try

• Creamy Asparagus-Potato Soup
• Cauliflower Potato Soup Recipe
• Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Soup
• Creamy Zucchini Soup with Dill