Warm up with this hearty Roasted Cauliflower and Chickpea Soup, a delightful blend of nutty chickpeas and caramelized cauliflower. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the cauliflower, giving the soup a rich depth of flavor.
What sets this soup apart is the zesty lemon-almond drizzle, which adds a bright and refreshing contrast to the creamy base. Each spoonful is a delicious balance of textures and flavors, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped into florets
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons almond butter
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower florets and chickpeas with olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the cauliflower and chickpeas on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the roasted cauliflower and chickpeas to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender or regular blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and almond butter until smooth. Drizzle over the soup before serving, and sprinkle with toasted almonds.
Notes
Substitution: You can use tahini instead of almond butter for a different flavor profile.
For added creaminess, you can blend in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while it simmers.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little vegetable broth if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well, so feel free to make a double batch!