Mediterranean Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup

🧄 Mediterranean Roasted Garlic Cheddar Cauliflower Soup

📝 Ingredients

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets

• 1 whole garlic bulb

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

• 1 cup milk (or cream for richer flavor)

• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

🔥 Instructions

1. Roast the garlic & cauliflower:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Slice the top off the garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil.

   • Toss cauliflower florets in olive oil, salt, and pepper.

   • Roast both for 25–30 minutes until golden and tender.

2. Sauté the aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil.

   • Add onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).

3. Blend the base:

   • Add roasted cauliflower and squeeze in the soft roasted garlic cloves.

   • Pour in the broth and simmer 10 minutes.

   • Blend with an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender) until smooth.

4. Add creaminess:

   • Return to pot, stir in milk and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

   • Add thyme, oregano, and adjust salt & pepper.

   • Stir in lemon juice if using.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and extra cheddar if desired.

   • Serve hot with crusty Mediterranean bread.

💡 Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and skip the cheese.

• Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor.

• Top with toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for crunch.

❓ Q&A Section

Q1: Can I make this soup vegan?
✅ Yes! Replace cheddar with vegan cheese and use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk).

Q2: How long can I store it?
✅ Up to 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer (store without the cheese for best texture).

Q3: Can I use frozen cauliflower?
✅ Yes, just roast it a bit longer (5–10 extra minutes) to remove excess moisture.

Q4: What goes well with this soup?
✅ Try pairing it with Mediterranean flatbread, Greek salad, or garlic herb croutons.

Q5: Can I make it spicy?
✅ Add a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a warm kick.