Why Make This Recipe
Pistou Soup, a traditional dish from Provence, is not only delicious but also packed with fresh vegetables. This simple and hearty soup is perfect for any time of year. It’s a great way to use seasonal produce and provides a warm, comforting meal. The addition of pistou brings a fresh basil flavor that takes the soup to the next level. It’s easy to make and can feed a crowd, making it a wonderful choice for family dinners or gatherings.
How to Make Pistou Soup
Ingredients
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 zucchini, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 can white beans, drained
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup basil leaves
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Directions
- In a large pot, cook the onion, carrots, zucchini, and green beans for 10 minutes until they soften.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, drained white beans, and vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, blend the basil leaves, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil together to make the pistou.
- Stir the pistou into the soup just before serving for a burst of flavor.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra pistou for garnish.
How to Serve Pistou Soup
Serve Pistou Soup warm in bowls. You can also provide crusty bread on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds a nice touch. This soup can be a main dish or a lovely starter to a meal.
How to Store Pistou Soup
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will be good for about 3 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Tips to Make Pistou Soup
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor.
- Adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand; this soup is flexible and forgiving.
- For a thicker soup, you can puree a portion of it and mix it back in.
- Add some pasta or rice for extra heartiness.
Variation
Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for more variety. You can also make it non-vegetarian by adding pieces of cooked chicken or sausage.
FAQs
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Just be sure to cook them separately before adding them to the soup.
Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you want to make it dairy-free, you can skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Can I make pistou in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pistou a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and stir it into the soup just before serving.