Creamy Carrot and Parsnip Soup Recipe

Creamy Carrot and Parsnip Soup

Serves 6

30 minutes or fewer

For a chunkier soup, purée only half of the soup mixture, then stir it back into the remaining broth and vegetables.

¼ cup olive oil
4 parsnips, cut into ½-inch pieces (4 cups)
5 carrots, cut into ½-inch pieces (2 cups)
1 large onion, diced (1 ½ cups)
6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
¾ cup packed sun-dried tomatoes (not in oil), roughly chopped, divided
2 ¼ tsp. chopped fresh oregano
1 ½ tsp. chopped fresh basil
3 tsp. balsamic vinegar
6 thin slices Italian bread, toasted

1. Heat oil in pot over medium-high heat. Add parsnips, carrots, and onion; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Add 3/4 cup broth; cook 10 minutes, or until broth is evaporated. Add remaining 5 1/4 cups broth, 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Cover, and bring to a brisk boil. Remove from heat. Purée soup in blender or food processor until smooth.

3. Chop remaining 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, and stir into soup. Season with salt and pepper, if desired. Ladle soup into bowls, drizzle lightly with balsamic vinegar, and garnish with toast.

January/February 2012 p.30