Soup season is well underway, and if you’re stuck in a rut with the same old recipes, it’s time for an upgrade. Celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis offers a range of creamy, flavorful soups that move beyond the standard tomato or cheddar – offering both comfort and unexpected twists. These recipes prove that rich flavor doesn’t always require heavy cream, and many can be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets.
Butternut Squash Soup: Simple, Clean, and Surprisingly Dairy-Free
De Laurentiis’ Butternut Squash Soup focuses on fresh, clean flavors without relying on cream. The process is straightforward: sauté onions and carrots in olive oil and butter until softened, then add garlic, cubed butternut squash, and chicken broth. Simmer until tender, then blend with an immersion blender. The key? The soup maintains a rich texture without any dairy, making it naturally lighter than many creamy alternatives. For a vegan version, substitute vegetable broth and omit the butter.
Creamy Pumpkin Soup: Fall Flavors in Every Sip
This Crema Di Zucca (Creamy Pumpkin Soup) begins similarly to the squash version, with sautéed onions. However, instead of butternut squash, the recipe incorporates potato, kabocha squash, and vegetable broth, along with a sprig of rosemary. Simmer until soft, then blend and season with cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, and kosher salt. This soup delivers a classic autumnal flavor profile, making it a comforting choice for colder months.
Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Soup: Velvety Smooth Without the Dairy
De Laurentiis’ Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Soup provides a creamy texture without dairy. Sauté a shallot in olive oil, then add sweet potatoes and cauliflower, bay leaf, vegetable broth, and water. Simmer until tender, then blend with an immersion blender, adding coconut oil for extra richness. This soup demonstrates how plant-based ingredients can create luxurious textures, appealing to those seeking healthier options.
Green Pea, Lettuce, and Fennel Soup: An Unexpectedly Delicious Combination
This recipe challenges expectations by including lettuce in a creamy soup. De Laurentiis herself notes that lettuce adds “a light flavor and texture” alongside the peas. Cook fennel and shallots, then wilt the lettuce before adding peas, chicken broth, and water. Simmer, blend, and season with fennel seeds, salt, and pepper. The unconventional ingredient combination results in a surprisingly refreshing and flavorful soup, perfect for those looking to experiment.
White Velvet Soup: A Blend of Earthy Flavors
De Laurentiis’ White Velvet Soup combines parsnips, celery, fennel, and onion, sautéed in olive oil with salt and fennel seeds. Simmer in water with a bay leaf until tender, then blend. Adding almond milk during blending creates a smooth, creamy finish. This soup offers a versatile base for customization, as its mild flavor pairs well with various seasonings and garnishes.
These recipes from Giada De Laurentiis provide a fresh take on soup season, proving that creamy comfort doesn’t always require traditional ingredients. By prioritizing flavor combinations and innovative techniques, these soups offer a delightful alternative to well-worn favorites.
