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Creamy Lemon Herb Soup is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon with the comforting creaminess of a soup. Perfect for any season, this soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a starter for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this delicious soup.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley, dill, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: croutons or lemon slices for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 3: Blend the Soup
Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Return the blended soup to the pot.
Step 4: Add Cream and Lemon
Stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix well and heat the soup over low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to let it boil after adding the cream.
Step 5: Incorporate Fresh Herbs
Add the fresh herbs to the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Creamy Lemon Herb Soup hot, garnished with croutons or lemon slices if desired. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of this comforting dish!
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or even spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use vegetable broth to keep it vegan.
How can I store leftover soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Can I freeze Creamy Lemon Herb Soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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