This Roasted Red Pepper Cilantro Soup is a celebration of flavors, combining the natural sweetness of roasted red peppers with the fresh, herbal notes of cilantro. The addition of a zesty lime drizzle elevates this dish, making it a perfect starter or light meal.
Not only is this soup incredibly easy to prepare, but it also offers a comforting creaminess without being overly heavy. Ideal for any season, it’s a delightful way to warm up on a chilly day or to enjoy as a refreshing summer appetizer.
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 4 large red bell peppers
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for roasting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the red bell peppers in half, remove the seeds, and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 20-25 minutes until the skin is blistered and charred.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the roasted peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Peel off the skins and chop the peppers.
- Add the chopped peppers to the pot with the onion and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), puree the soup until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped cilantro, then season with lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Notes
Tip: For an extra garnish, reserve some whole cilantro leaves and a slice of lime to decorate each bowl before serving.
To make this soup vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a nutty flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when blending the soup.
For storage, keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and it can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.