EATING
Begin with Soup
Cold temperatures call for many layers of clothes and lots of warm comfort food. And I can’t think of anything more appropriate for winter than a big hearty bowl of soup and crusty hot bread to complete the meal.
Tasting and filling, this recipe is especially good for kids and it pairs the earthy fullness of carrots with sweet pears and tart apples for an incredibly satisfying flavor that is different from what you would expect from a vegetable soup. Crunchy croutons add a delicious and interesting contrast to the velvet consistency of the soup. It is perfect for a simple dinner or a tasty lunch option when paired with a favorite sandwich or salad.
Yumi!
Carrot, Pear & Apple Soup with Croutons
Ingredients
- 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and cut into chunks
- 2 Anjou or Bosch Pears, peeled, cored and cut into chunks
- 1 cup Coconut Milk, Vegetable stock or Chicken Stock
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes or fresh chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
Technique
Put vegetables, pears and apples along with vegetable stock in a medium sauce pot. Bring to a low boil, lower heat and cook until tender; about 15 minutes. Put all contents of pot into a blender or food processor along with water. Add salt and parsley flakes and blend until smooth.
Return to pot and heat again until nice and hot. Top with croutons (recipe below) and serve.
Note* — if you are fortunate to own a Vita-Mix, place all ingredients in unit and process for about 5 minutes. Soup will not only process but cook while mixing. Vita-Mix is a must have for busy moms if you can afford it.
Croutons
- 5 inch chunk of French bread cut into small chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon herb medley (oregano, thyme and basil)
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Technique
Place all ingredients in a mixing bowl and toss until well coated with olive oil. Transfer to a cookie sheet and toast in a hot, 400-degree, oven until lightly browned. Use on salads or for soup topping.
