Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Crispy Sage & Hazelnuts

The Ultimate Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Crispy Sage & Hazelnuts

Cauliflower cheese soup with crispy sage & hazelnuts is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days. This creamy soup is made with fresh cauliflower and melted cheese, creating a delicious flavor that everyone will enjoy. The crispy sage adds a lovely crunch, and the hazelnuts give it a nutty taste. It’s a simple recipe that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner at home!

Why Make Cauliflower Cheese Soup?

This soup is a wonderful choice for many reasons:

1. Creamy and Delicious: The combination of cauliflower and cheese makes this soup creamy and rich, perfect for warming you up.
2. Healthy Ingredients: Cauliflower is a healthy vegetable that is low in calories and packed with vitamins. It’s a great way to add more veggies to your meal!
3. Quick and Easy: You can make this soup in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
4. Great for Sharing: This soup is perfect for sharing with family and friends. It’s a comforting dish that everyone will love.
5. Customizable: You can easily change the ingredients to suit your taste. Add more spices or different toppings for a unique twist!

Key Takeaways

• Quick and easy to make.
• Tastes amazing with creamy cheese and crunchy toppings.
• Perfect for a cozy meal or as a starter.
• Can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
• Healthy and filling for everyone to enjoy.

Making cauliflower cheese soup with crispy sage & hazelnuts is a fun way to create a delicious dish that everyone will love!

Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Crispy Sage & Hazelnuts: A Comforting Favorite

This soup is a dish that brings joy to many people. The creamy texture and cheesy flavor make it a delightful choice for any meal. The crispy sage and hazelnuts add extra flavor and texture, making it a special treat. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold day or serving it at a dinner party, this soup is sure to impress!

The Benefits of Making Soup at Home

Making soup at home has many advantages. Here are some reasons to give it a try:

1. Fresh Ingredients: You can choose fresh vegetables and ingredients, which makes your soup taste better and healthier.
2. Control Over Flavors: You can adjust the flavors by adding more or less of your favorite ingredients, like cheese or spices.
3. Cost-Effective: Making soup at home is usually cheaper than buying pre-made soups from the store.
4. Fun to Make: Preparing soup can be a fun activity. You can get creative with the ingredients and flavors!
5. Healthy Choice: Soups are a great way to eat more vegetables, which are important for staying healthy.

Ingredient Breakdown: What You’ll Need

To make delicious cauliflower cheese soup with crispy sage & hazelnuts, you will need the following ingredients:

Why These Ingredients?

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role:

• Cauliflower: This vegetable is the star of the soup. It gives the soup a creamy texture when blended and is full of nutrients.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add flavor and depth to the soup. They make the soup smell amazing while it cooks!
• Vegetable Broth: This is the base of the soup. It adds flavor and helps to cook the cauliflower.
• Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess and a rich flavor to the soup. It melts beautifully and makes the soup extra delicious.
• Milk: Milk helps make the soup creamy and smooth. You can use whole milk or any milk you prefer.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to sauté the onion and garlic, adding flavor and richness.
• Fresh Sage: Crispy sage leaves add a wonderful crunch and a unique flavor to the soup.
• Hazelnuts: Chopped hazelnuts provide a nutty crunch that complements the creamy soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Easy-to-Follow Steps for the Perfect “Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Crispy Sage & Hazelnuts”

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious cauliflower cheese soup with crispy sage & hazelnuts that your family will love:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Wash the cauliflower and cut it into small florets. Chop the onion and garlic. Set everything aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells great.

Step 3: Add the Cauliflower
Add the cauliflower florets to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cauliflower to soften a little.

Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.

Step 5: Blend the Soup
Once the cauliflower is soft, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it is smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches. Be careful, as the soup will be hot!

Step 6: Add Cheese and Milk
Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a regular blender). Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and milk. Heat the soup gently until the cheese melts and the soup is warm. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Prepare the Crispy Sage and Hazelnuts
In a small pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh sage leaves and cook for about 1-2 minutes until they are crispy. Remove them from the pan and drain on paper towels. In the same pan, toast the chopped hazelnuts for about 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy sage and toasted hazelnuts. Enjoy your delicious cauliflower cheese soup!

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cauliflower and herbs will make your soup taste better. Try to use seasonal produce when possible.
• Be Careful with Hot Soup: When blending the soup, make sure to let it cool slightly if using a regular blender to prevent splattering.
• Adjust Thickness: If you like your soup thicker, add less broth. For a thinner soup, add more broth or milk.
• Experiment with Cheese: If you want to try different flavors, you can use other types of cheese like Gruyère or mozzarella.

Tips to Make Cauliflower Cheese Soup

Here are some extra tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:

• Prep Ahead: Wash and chop the cauliflower, onion, and garlic ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to cook.
• Use a Heavy Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot helps cook the soup evenly and prevents burning.
• Don’t Rush the Blending: Make sure to blend the soup until it’s completely smooth for the best texture.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste the soup before serving to see if it needs more salt or pepper.

Meal Prep and Storing Tips

Make Ahead

• Prepare Ingredients: You can wash and chop the cauliflower, onion, and garlic ahead of time. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to make the soup.

Storing

• Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have leftover soup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Microwave: You can reheat the soup in the microwave. Just be sure to stir it well and heat it in short intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat the soup gently in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warm.

Topping Ideas for Extra Flavor

Make Your “Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Crispy Sage & Hazelnuts” Even Better

You can enjoy your soup in many delicious ways:

• Add More Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top for added freshness.
• Drizzle with Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the flavor of the soup.
• Cheese Croutons: Top with crispy cheese croutons for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Nutrition Information and Health Benefits

Health Perks

This cauliflower cheese soup is a great way to enjoy vegetables in a delicious way. Cauliflower is low in calories and high in fiber, which is good for digestion. The cheese adds protein and calcium, making this soup a filling and nutritious meal.

Variations and Customizations

You can easily customize your cauliflower cheese soup with crispy sage & hazelnuts to suit your taste:

• Make it Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and almond milk instead of regular cheese and milk for a vegan version.
• Add More Vegetables: Try adding carrots, potatoes, or leeks for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or curry powder for a unique twist on the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

What to Serve with Your Cauliflower Cheese Soup

Pair your soup with these delicious options for a complete meal or snack:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or breadsticks for a satisfying meal.
• Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Sandwiches: Pair with grilled cheese or a veggie sandwich for a hearty lunch.

Conclusion

Making cauliflower cheese soup with crispy sage & hazelnuts is fun, easy, and delicious. It’s a recipe you can enjoy with your family or friends. With its creamy texture and crunchy toppings, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Try making it today and enjoy every bite!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower?
   Yes! You can use frozen cauliflower instead of fresh. Just cook it until tender.
2. How long does the soup last?
   The soup can last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to eat.
4. What if I don’t have hazelnuts?
   You can use other nuts like walnuts or almonds if you don’t have hazelnuts.
5. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Yes! This soup is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t contain any wheat products.
6. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add more cheese to make it even cheesier.
7. What can I do with leftovers?
   Leftover soup can be used as a sauce for pasta or as a base for a casserole.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes! You can use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella or gouda.
9. How can I make it spicier?
   Add a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
10. Can I add cream to the soup?
    Yes! Adding cream will make the soup even richer and creamier.
    

    Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Crispy Sage & Hazelnuts

    Cette soupe de chou-fleur au fromage est un plat réconfortant et crémeux, parfait pour les journées froides. L'ajout de sauge croustillante et de noisettes grillées apporte une touche de croquant et de saveur, rendant ce plat à la fois délicieux et élégant.

    Print Recipe Pin Recipe

    Prep Time 10 minutes mins

    Cook Time 30 minutes mins

    Total Time 40 minutes mins

    Course lunch, Soup

    Cuisine Mediterranean

    Servings 4

    Calories 320 kcal

    Ingredients

      

    • 1 medium head of cauliflower chopped into florets
    • 1 large onion diced
    • 2 cloves garlic minced
    • 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
    • 1 cup milk or plant-based milk for a dairy-free option
    • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese grated (or a dairy-free cheese alternative)
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or vegan butter
    • 10-12 fresh sage leaves
    • 1/3 cup hazelnuts roughly chopped
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • Fresh chives chopped (for garnish, optional)

    Instructions

     

    • Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
    • Cook the Cauliflower: Add the chopped cauliflower to the pot and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender.
    • Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until creamy. Return the soup to the pot.
    • Add Milk and Cheese: Stir in the milk and grated cheddar cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.
    • Prepare the Crispy Sage: In a small skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh sage leaves and fry for about 1-2 minutes until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
    • Toast the Hazelnuts: In the same skillet, add the chopped hazelnuts and toast for about 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
    • Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy sage and toasted hazelnuts. Garnish with fresh chives if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

    Notes

    • • Additional Tips: For added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of white wine during cooking. You can also add other vegetables like leeks or potatoes for a heartier soup.
      • Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up if needed.
      • Freezer-Friendly: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

      Final Thoughts:

      This Cauliflower Cheese Soup with Crispy Sage & Hazelnuts is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its creamy texture and the added crunch from the sage and hazelnuts, it’s a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of cauliflower in a new and exciting way. Enjoy every spoonful of this deliciously satisfying soup!

    Keyword Cauliflower Soup, Cheese Soup Recipe, Creamy Cauliflower Soup