This Italian Garlic Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with flavorful garlic, fresh herbs, and a splash of olive oil, making it both simple and comforting.
I love how the garlic gives it a lovely kick, and it’s so easy to make! Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got the perfect meal for chilly nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives the soup a lovely depth. If you’re out, you could use vegetable oil or butter instead, but olive oil adds a unique flavor.
Garlic: This soup shines because of garlic! Use fresh cloves for the best taste. If you can’t find it, garlic powder can work, but it’s not as flavorful.
Broth: Chicken broth adds richness, but vegetable broth is a fantastic substitute for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth is great if you have it!
White Wine: The wine adds depth, but you can skip it or use additional broth instead. A splash of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors if you omit the wine.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess. You can substitute it with whole milk or even a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
How Do I Get the Perfect Garlic Flavor Without Burning It?
To enjoy that rich garlic flavor without bitterness, it’s crucial to sauté the garlic carefully. Follow these steps:
- Use medium heat to cook the garlic and onion together. Keep a close eye on them.
- Cook until the onion is soft and transparent. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir frequently to make sure the garlic doesn’t stick to the pot or brown.
- If you notice it starting to brown, lower the heat immediately.
These simple tips will help you achieve a wonderful garlic flavor without the burnt taste! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Italian Garlic Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8-10 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk (optional for creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Croutons (preferably garlic-seasoned)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Bread slices, to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes for preparation and another 30 minutes of cooking time. With perfect timing, you can enjoy this comforting dish in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the thinly sliced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté gently until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from browning too much, as burnt garlic can turn bitter.
2. Add Flavorful Herbs:
Next, sprinkle in your dried thyme or rosemary and add the optional red pepper flakes. Stir everything together for about 30 seconds to help release the herbs’ wonderful aroma.
3. Build the Base:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the dry white wine, if you choose to use it. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully!
4. Blend It Smooth:
Once done, remove the pot from heat. Carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s nice and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be cautious with the hot liquid!
5. Add Creaminess:
Return the pureed soup to the pot. If you’d like your soup creamier, stir in the heavy cream or whole milk and warm it gently over low heat. Make sure it doesn’t boil!
6. Season to Taste:
Now’s the time to taste your soup! Adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The flavors should be rich and satisfying!
7. Finish with Freshness:
Right before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a fresh burst of flavor. It adds a lovely pop of color too!
8. Serve with Style:
Dish out the soup hot into bowls. Top each serving with garlic-seasoned croutons, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and a bit more parsley for garnish. Serve alongside slices of crusty bread to soak up every last drop!
This creamy, garlicky soup beautifully balances bold flavors and a velvety texture, making it a perfect cozy Italian-inspired meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! Vegetable broth works perfectly and keeps the soup vegetarian-friendly. Just make sure it’s a flavor you enjoy, as it will influence the soup’s overall taste.
How Can I Adjust the Garlic Flavor?
If you prefer a milder garlic taste, you can reduce the number of garlic cloves used. Conversely, if you love garlic, feel free to add more! Just remember, raw or roasted garlic can also be added as a finishing touch for an extra kick.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance! Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk or a plant-based cream, like coconut milk or almond milk, for a dairy-free option. Just remember this may alter the flavor and creaminess slightly!
