Name: Creamy Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 tsp cumin; 1/4 tsp smoked paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup milk or plant-based cream; Optional: fresh cilantro or lime for garnish

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Creamy Vegetable Soup is a comforting, golden blend of carrots, potatoes, and warming spices, gently simmered and puréed into a silky, satisfying bowl of goodness. With subtle Mexican-inspired flavors and a smooth, luxurious texture, it makes a nourishing starter or light side dish—perfect for your Cinco de Mayo celebration or any cozy evening meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is rich in flavor yet light on the stomach, making it ideal for pairing with heartier main dishes or enjoying on its own. The combination of cumin and smoked paprika brings a subtle warmth that elevates the natural sweetness of carrots and the creaminess of potatoes. It’s simple to prepare, customizable, and can easily be made vegan or dairy-free. Plus, the smooth, velvety texture is incredibly comforting.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup milk or plant-based cream
Optional: fresh cilantro or lime for garnish

directions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
Add the carrots, potatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat the vegetables with the spices.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender.
Using an immersion blender (or transferring carefully to a standard blender), blend the soup until smooth and creamy.
Return the soup to the pot if needed, stir in the milk or plant-based cream, and warm through over low heat without boiling.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a bright, Cinco de Mayo twist.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per serving: 180 kcal

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
Protein Boost: Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas after blending for added texture and nutrition.
Herb-Forward: Add chopped fresh thyme, oregano, or parsley for a more herbal flavor profile.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk or coconut cream to keep the soup completely dairy-free.
Chunky Style: Reserve some cooked vegetables before blending and stir them in for added texture.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This soup also freezes well—allow to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Yukon gold or russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture, but any starchy potato will do.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, if you’re not keeping it vegetarian, chicken broth adds depth and works well in this recipe.

What’s the best tool for blending the soup?

An immersion blender is most convenient, but a standard blender will give a smoother finish—just blend in batches and be careful with the hot liquid.

How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?

Adjust the consistency with extra broth or milk after blending until you reach your desired texture.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely before freezing and leave space in the container for expansion.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter flavor and a deeper color, which complements the spices beautifully.

How can I garnish it for a festive look?

Top with chopped cilantro, a swirl of cream or yogurt, chili oil, or crispy tortilla strips for added flair.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Try incorporating zucchini, parsnips, or even a handful of spinach near the end of cooking.

Is it suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s smooth, mild, and nourishing—perfect for young palates. You can reduce or omit the paprika if needed.

Conclusion

Creamy Vegetable Soup is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers warmth, flavor, and comfort in every spoonful. With its creamy base, vibrant color, and Mexican-inspired spices, it’s an ideal starter or side for your Cinco de Mayo celebration or any cozy meal. Easy to customize and full of wholesome ingredients, this soup is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Creamy Vegetable Soup

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Silky, golden vegetable soup made with a blend of carrots, potatoes, and spices—comforting, wholesome, and perfect as a Cinco de Mayo starter or light side.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Simmered and Blended
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
Add carrots, potatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
Blend soup until smooth using an immersion blender or standard blender.
Stir in milk or cream and warm through.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a Cinco de Mayo twist.