Italian Garlic Soup is warm, tasty, and perfect for chilly days! With garlic as the star, this soup is simple yet rich in flavor, making you feel right at home.
And let’s be real, there’s nothing better than slurping up a bowl of soup that warms your belly! I love to top mine with crispy bread for an extra crunch—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: The main flavor here! Use fresh, whole garlic cloves for the best taste. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can serve as a substitute, but it won’t have the same punch.
Broth: Chicken broth provides a nice depth, but vegetable broth works just as well for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth is fantastic if you have it, or go for low-sodium store-bought to control salt levels.
Bread: I love using rustic or Italian bread for its sturdy texture. If gluten-free, choose a gluten-free bread instead. You can also use croutons if you want to save time!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice tang. If you can’t find it, Pecorino Romano works just as good. Nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative!
How Do I Make Sure My Garlic Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking garlic right is key to getting that rich, delicious flavor. You want it to be golden, not burnt. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning. Cooking too quickly will make it bitter.
- Slice garlic evenly so it cooks at the same rate. Thin slices work best.
- Keep stirring! This will help garlic cook evenly and release its aroma without burning.
Follow these steps, and your garlic will be perfect for the soup, enhancing the comforting flavors beautifully!
How to Make Italian Garlic Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 10-12 cloves garlic, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Bread Croutons:
- 4 slices of rustic bread or Italian loaf, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This flavorful Italian Garlic Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, set aside about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté gently. Stir frequently so that it becomes fragrant and golden but doesn’t burn. This should take about 3-4 minutes—keep an eye on it!
2. Cook the Onion:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook them together until the onion is translucent and soft, which should take about 5 minutes. The lovely smell will start to fill your kitchen!
3. Add Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the cup of water. Add in dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes so the flavors can meld together nicely.
5. Prepare the Bread Croutons:
While the soup is simmering, take another skillet and melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the bread cubes and toast them until they are golden and crispy on all sides. Turn them occasionally for even browning. Once they look perfect, remove and set aside.
6. Blend the Soup (Optional):
If a smoother texture is your preference, use an immersion blender to blend the soup lightly, ensuring some chunky bits remain for that lovely texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When the soup is done simmering, serve it hot. Top each bowl with the toasted bread cubes, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top, and don’t forget the grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finish!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Italian garlic soup packed with rich flavors and crunchy goodness!
Can I Use Less Garlic?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of garlic, feel free to reduce the amount to 6-8 cloves. You’ll still get great flavor without it being overpowering!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and sauté them along with the onion to ensure they soften properly.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover Italian garlic soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a side salad or a classic Caprese salad. You can also enjoy it with fresh bread for dipping or a simple grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal!