I remember the first time I stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s Carrot Courgette Soup recipe. It was one of those hectic days where I was trying to balance work, home, and everything in between. I needed something quick, healthy, and satisfying. After scrolling through dozens of recipes, Jamie’s caught my eye. There was something about the simplicity and fresh flavors that drew me in. What I didn’t expect was how much comfort I would find in a humble soup.
This recipe became a staple in my kitchen. It’s easy to make, flexible with ingredients, and perfect for days when I want a light but nourishing meal. Plus, it’s packed with veggies and full of flavor-ideal for those cold, rainy afternoons when you need something to warm you up from the inside out.
Jamie Oliver’s Carrot Courgette Soup Recipe
This soup is a brilliant combination of two ingredients that I often overlook: carrots and courgettes (or zucchinis, depending where you’re from). The magic happens when you cook them down and let the flavors meld together in a way that feels much more sophisticated than just the sum of its parts.
What makes Jamie’s recipe special is the balance of fresh, crisp vegetables and the depth of flavor brought out by simple herbs and spices. When you take that first spoonful, it’s like being wrapped in a cozy blanket. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect for almost any season.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients. Some of them might seem common, but when you work with the right combination, they become something extraordinary.
- Carrots: The star of the soup. Sweet and earthy, they add a smooth texture and vibrant color.
- Courgettes (Zucchini): These tender vegetables soak up all the flavors around them. They’re mild but give the soup its body.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth. It’s a flavor base that rounds everything out.
- Garlic: The aromatic punch that brings the soup to life.
- Vegetable stock: For a rich, savory backdrop that ties the veggies together.
- Olive oil: A drizzle to sauté the veggies and add richness.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary work wonders. You can even throw in a bay leaf or two for extra depth.
- Salt and pepper: To taste. These two are essential for seasoning and elevating the natural flavors of the veggies.
- Lemon juice (optional): A squeeze at the end adds brightness and a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the carrots.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Carrot Courgette Soup
I’ll walk you through the process as I did it the first time. It’s not complicated, but it’s all about layering flavors.
- Prep the veggies: Start by peeling and chopping the carrots into small, even pieces. Slice the courgettes. Chop the onion finely and crush the garlic cloves.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Heat a bit of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re soft and aromatic, but not brown.
- Cook the carrots and courgettes: Add the carrots and courgettes to the pot. Stir them around for a couple of minutes to let them absorb the flavors of the onions and garlic.
- Add the stock: Pour in your vegetable stock, enough to just cover the vegetables. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the carrots are tender.
- Blend the soup: Once the veggies are soft, use an immersion blender to blend everything until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. I love a squeeze of lemon juice here, it really lifts the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. A drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of cream can be added for richness if desired.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Here’s a little science to take your soup knowledge to the next level. Ever wonder why carrots make such a great base for soups? They’re packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that turns into Vitamin A when consumed. This not only helps with vision but also promotes skin health and boosts the immune system.
Now, courgettes might seem less exciting at first glance, but they’re loaded with water (about 95% of them), making them naturally hydrating. They also have a mild flavor that allows other ingredients to shine, while still adding to the overall texture of the soup. The key is that courgettes don’t overpower the dish-they just help everything come together.
Expert Tips
- Make it ahead: Soups like this taste even better the next day, after the flavors have had time to mingle and develop. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage.
- Texture: If you like a chunkier texture, pulse the soup with an immersion blender a few times instead of blending it completely. You’ll get a nice contrast between the smooth and chunky parts.
- Herb variations: While thyme and rosemary are fantastic with this soup, basil or oregano can also be used for a different twist. Just remember that fresh herbs tend to be stronger than dried, so use them sparingly.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, try adding a protein like lentils, chickpeas, or even shredded chicken. It’ll transform the soup into a full meal.
- Garnish: Try topping your soup with roasted seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower) for crunch or a swirl of yogurt or sour cream for creaminess.
Recipe Variations
This soup is super flexible. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have in your fridge or what you’re craving.
- Swap courgettes for other veggies: If you don’t have courgettes, you can use parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even butternut squash for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy kick: For a spicy version, add a chopped red chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic. The heat will complement the sweetness of the carrots.
- Add coconut milk: If you want a creamier, more exotic twist, add a can of coconut milk during the blending stage. It brings a silky texture and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the carrots.
Final Words
I can’t emphasize enough how easy this recipe is to make, and yet how satisfying it is to eat. Whether it’s for a quick lunch, a starter for dinner, or a light dinner on its own, this Carrot Courgette Soup hits all the right notes. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest things-like a bowl of soup-are all you need to feel nourished and content.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Carrot Courgette Soup?
You’ll need carrots, courgettes (zucchini), onions, garlic, olive oil, vegetable stock, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Carrot Courgette Soup?
It takes about 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook this soup from start to finish.
Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Carrot Courgette Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool down completely before transferring it into a freezer-safe container.