Warm, Spiced, and Creamy with a Hint of Lemon & Herb
This Mediterranean-Style Cauliflower Soup brings together the earthy flavors of cumin, turmeric, and paprika with roasted cauliflower, garlic, and a touch of coconut milk or cream for richness. Finished with a splash of lemon and fresh herbs—it’s a comforting, healthy soup that feels like sunshine in a bowl.
Perfect for cozy nights, meal prep, or when you need a taste of the Mediterranean!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧄 Garlicky Goodness: Fresh garlic adds depth and warmth to every spoonful.
- 🌿 Spice-Packed Base: Cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and turmeric create a warm, aromatic broth.
- 🥥 Creamy Finish: Coconut milk gives it a silky texture without dairy—perfect for plant-based diets.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Roast, simmer, blend—done in under an hour.
- 🍋 Bright & Fresh: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end lifts the flavor and brings everything to life.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6):
For the Soup:
- 1 medium head cauliflower , cut into florets (about 4–5 cups)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for high-heat cooking)
- 1 small onion , finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for non-vegan option)
- Juice of ½ lemon (about 1–2 tbsp)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh dill or parsley , chopped
- Extra lemon wedges
- Sprinkle of paprika or sumac
- Drizzle of extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Roast the Cauliflower
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) .
Toss cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon olive oil , then spread on a baking sheet.
Roast for 20–25 minutes , until tender and lightly golden.
Set aside while preparing the soup base.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil .
Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant—not burnt.
Step 3: Add Spices & Broth
Sprinkle in:
- Cumin
- Turmeric
- Smoked paprika
- Coriander
Stir for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Pour in broth and stir well to combine.
Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10 minutes to deepen the spice flavor.
Step 4: Blend It Smooth
Add the roasted cauliflower to the pot.
Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until smooth and creamy .
Or transfer to a blender in batches and return to the pot.
Step 5: Stir in Coconut Milk & Lemon
Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream to give the soup its rich, velvety texture.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer gently for 5 more minutes —do not boil.
Step 6: Serve Hot & Hearty
Ladle into bowls and garnish with:
- Fresh dill or parsley
- A drizzle of olive oil or coconut milk
- A few extra roasted cauliflower florets for texture
- Lemon wedges on the side
Enjoy warm as a main dish or starter.
Tips for Success:
- 🥣 Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For best creaminess—shake can well before opening.
- 🧊 Make Ahead Magic: Chills well—store in fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for later.
- 🥗 Boost Nutrition: Stir in spinach, kale, or white beans for added fiber and protein.
- 🌶️ Add Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or harissa paste adds nice warmth.
- 🧁 Garnish Creatively: Try toasted pine nuts, crumbled feta, or dollop of Greek yogurt on top.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with crusty bread, pita, or a simple green salad.
- Great at lunch, dinner, or as a soothing starter.
- Perfect for cold evenings, detox meals, or light dinners.
Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6 servings – approximate):
(With coconut milk – per serving)
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Protein: ~5g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~4g
This Mediterranean-Style Cauliflower Soup is proof that comfort food can be both healthy and deeply flavorful. With its warm spices, creamy finish, and zesty lemon lift—it’s a soul-warming bowl that brings the essence of the Mediterranean right to your table.
So go ahead and make this today… because once you take a sip—you’ll be making it again and again!
