The Final Stretch of Winter is here.
As a mom, I know how challenging it can be to keep our families warm and healthy during these last chilly days of winter.
We’re all counting down the days until spring, but in the meantime, I’ve found that a good, hearty soup can work wonders to keep everyone cosy and satisfied.
Today, I’m sharing one of my go-to recipes for this time of year: a Hearty Carrot Soup that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Why I Love This Soup (and I Think You Will Too!)
Winter is slowly coming to an end, but the cold weather seems to be hanging on just a little bit longer. I’ve been making this Carrot Soup for a few years now, and it’s always a hit with the whole family. The best part? It’s packed with nutrients, so I know I’m giving my kids something that’s not only comforting but also good for them.
What makes this soup extra special is the Carrot Top Pesto—a clever way to use up every part of the carrot. Plus, it’s a fun twist that adds a pop of colour and flavour to the dish. And let’s not forget the grilled bread on the side; perfect for dunking and soaking up every last drop.
Hearty Carrot Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 large carrots (about 1 pound), chopped
- 1 medium shallot, minced
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Carrot Top Pesto:
- 2 cups loosely packed carrot tops, rinsed well
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons toasted pistachios
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Grilled Bread:
- 1 French Baguette
- Olive oil, for brushing
Step-by-Step Directions:
- Sauté the Carrots: Start by heating your olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté until they start to soften—about 6 to 8 minutes. Then, toss in the minced shallots and cook until they become translucent, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
- Simmer the Soup: Next, pour in the vegetable stock and add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it do its thing for about 30 minutes. By now, the carrots should be soft, and the broth will have reduced, concentrating all those wonderful flavours. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf!
- Blend to Perfection: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth. Be cautious with the hot liquids—work in batches if needed. Once blended, return the soup to the pot and keep it warm over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and butter, letting them melt into the soup to create a silky, rich texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Make the Pesto: While the soup simmers, let’s talk about that Carrot Top Pesto. Combine the carrot tops, olive oil, toasted pistachios, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until smooth. This pesto is bright, zesty, and a wonderful way to use up those often-forgotten carrot tops. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients!
- Grill the Bread: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Slice the baguette diagonally and brush each slice generously with olive oil. Grill the bread until you see those beautiful grill marks—crispy and golden on the outside, but still soft on the inside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the warm soup into bowls, top with a drizzle of the Carrot Top Pesto, and sprinkle with flake sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve with the grilled bread on the side, perfect for dipping.
Why This Soup is Perfect for the End of Winter
As moms, we’re all looking forward to the warmer days ahead, but there’s something so comforting about these last cosy moments of winter. This Carrot Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience—a way to gather the family around the table and enjoy the simple pleasure of good food. It’s also a great way to sneak in those veggies!
I love that this recipe is both nutritious and easy to make, even on those busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a great reminder that sometimes, the best dishes come from using the simplest, freshest ingredients.
Get Everything You Need at The Barn
Ready to give this recipe a try? You can find all the fresh, farm-to-table ingredients you need at The Barn. Whether you’re shopping for carrots, olive oil, or that crusty baguette, we’ve got you covered. And don’t forget to grab some extra pistachios for snacking while you cook—they’re always a hit in my house!
