Smoked Cauliflower and White Bean Soup

Serves 4-6

This creamy roasted cauliflower and white bean soup is all about resourcefulness in the kitchen. Don’t have cauliflower? Try broccoli or butternut squash. Use the stalks and leaves of your veggies—they add flavor and cut down on waste. Missing smoked paprika? Harissa, chipotle powder, or plain paprika work beautifully. No parsley or kale? Any green will do, or skip it entirely. A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate it further if you have them on hand. This soup invites you to get creative and be mindful using what you have = - reducing waste, saving money and time!

• 1 large head of cauliflower, broken into florets and leaves and stem chopped

• 1 can (15 oz) white beans (like cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for roasting and garnish

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin

• 8 cups vegetable broth

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk, optional

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, kale or other green, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, optional

1. Roast the Cauliflower:

   • Preheat the oven to 400°F 

   • Toss the cauliflower florets with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika.

   • Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway, until lightly browned and tender.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add the onion and cauliflower leaves and stem and cook until translucent, about 5 - 7 minutes.

   • Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Soup:

   • Add the roasted cauliflower, white beans, and vegetable broth to the pot.

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until slightly reduced. 

   • Blend the Soup:

   • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth (or transfer it to a blender in batches).

   • Stir in almond milk if desired for extra creaminess.

   • Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

4. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with herbs or greens. 

     
     

     

     Smoked Cauliflower & White Bean Soup