A few years ago, I was wandering through a local farmer’s market, searching for something simple and healthy to make. There was something about the vibrant colors of fresh produce that caught my attention, and I stumbled upon a basket of bright carrots and courgettes. I had no idea at the time that they would become the base of one of my favorite soups.
I remember throwing these ingredients together and stumbling upon Jamie Oliver’s Carrot and Courgette Soup recipe. It was like finding a little treasure. The soup was incredibly comforting, easy to make, and, honestly, it surprised me with how much flavor came from just a handful of fresh veggies.
That moment sparked my ongoing love for simple, wholesome meals, and I’ve been making this soup every season since.
Jamie Oliver’s Carrot And Courgette Soup Recipe
This soup is everything you want in a quick meal: light, nutritious, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for any time of year. I’ve made it for lunch, as a starter for dinner, and even for meal prep. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with Jamie’s easy-to-follow instructions, makes it a go-to when I need something comforting yet light.
Here’s a quick glimpse of the recipe:
- Carrots – Naturally sweet, earthy, and packed with vitamins.
- Courgettes (Zucchini) – Mild, versatile, and add a subtle creaminess.
- Stock – Either vegetable or chicken for that savory depth.
- Herbs & Spices – A mix of garlic, onion, and a touch of nutmeg.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
It’s one of those dishes that will become part of your regular rotation because it’s that easy and that good.
Ingredients Needed
Making Jamie’s carrot and courgette soup doesn’t require anything exotic. It’s all about simple, fresh ingredients. Here’s the full list you’ll need:
- 2 carrots – Medium to large, peeled and chopped
- 2 courgettes (zucchini) – Washed and sliced
- 1 onion – Chopped
- 2 cloves garlic – Minced
- 1 potato (optional) – Peeled and diced (for extra creaminess)
- 1 liter vegetable stock – Or chicken stock for a richer flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) – Optional, but they add a lot of flavor
- Salt & pepper – To taste
- 1 pinch of nutmeg – For a warming touch
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Carrot And Courgette Soup
Now, for the fun part: making the soup! This recipe is super simple, and I’ve made it countless times, often in a rush. The best part? It doesn’t take a lot of work, but it always tastes like you’ve spent hours on it.
- Prep the veggies – Peel and chop the carrots, courgettes, and potato (if you’re using it). Mince the garlic and chop the onion.
- Sauté the onion and garlic – In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the carrots, courgettes, and potato – Toss them into the pot and stir them around for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the stock – Add your vegetable or chicken stock and bring everything to a gentle boil. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the veggies are tender.
- Blend the soup – Use a hand blender to blitz everything into a smooth texture, or transfer it to a regular blender (just be careful with the hot liquid).
- Season and serve – Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Serve it hot with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a moment to dive into the science behind the key ingredients in this soup. It’s amazing how food like this can nourish the body in so many ways, while being so simple to prepare.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A, carrots support eye health and immune function. The natural sugars in carrots add a subtle sweetness, making them the perfect base for savory dishes.
- Courgettes (Zucchini): These are surprisingly high in water and fiber, making them great for hydration and digestive health. They are also a source of antioxidants, like vitamin C, which help reduce inflammation.
- Olive oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, olive oil is known for its heart-healthy properties. It also helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A and K from the soup’s ingredients.
- Nutmeg: Nutmeg isn’t just a warm spice; it has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion, making it a perfect addition to soups.
Expert Tips
- Texture: If you prefer a chunky soup, blend only half of the vegetables, leaving the rest intact for texture.
- Extra Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy version, add a splash of double cream or coconut milk after blending.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper. These help balance out the natural sweetness of the carrots and courgettes.
- Make Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and also freezes perfectly. I always make a double batch and freeze half for later.
Recipe Variations
While the base recipe is fantastic as is, there are plenty of ways to add your personal touch:
- Add Protein: Throw in some cooked chicken or beans to make it more filling.
- Roast the Veggies: Roasting the carrots and courgettes first will bring out their sweetness even more.
- Add Spices: Curry powder, cumin, or turmeric would pair beautifully with the flavor of the carrots and courgettes.
- Herb Variations: Instead of thyme or rosemary, try basil, parsley, or even mint for a fresh twist.
Final Words
This soup is one of those dishes that can easily adapt to whatever you have on hand. It’s perfect for when you want something nourishing but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Every time I make it, I’m reminded that simplicity can be the most satisfying.
Whether you make it for yourself or serve it to guests, this soup will always hit the spot. And honestly, the way the flavors develop after a day or two in the fridge makes it even better.
FAQs
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Carrot And Courgette Soup In Advance?
Yes! You can make the soup a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Carrot And Courgette Soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What Can I Substitute If I Don’t Have Courgettes For Jamie Oliver’s Soup?
You can use any mild-flavored squash or even a few extra carrots. The flavor will change a bit but still be delicious!