French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)

Rich, velvety, and bursting with garlic flavor, this French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis) is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or wanting a quick yet impressive meal, this soup stands out with its creamy texture and aromatic ingredients. Plus, it pairs beautifully with crispy cheesy crostinis that elevate the experience, making it a must-try for garlic lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup can be made in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and herbs creates a deep, satisfying taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a starter, main course, or even a light lunch paired with a salad.
• Comforting Texture: Its velvety consistency makes each spoonful feel indulgent and comforting.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need to make this French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis) come to life.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Immersion blender (or regular blender)
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
• Immersion blender: Provides a quick way to achieve a smooth texture without transferring hot liquids.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 tbsp salted butter
– 1 small white onion (minced)
– 2 heads of garlic (24 cloves, sliced in half)
– 2 thyme sprigs (stems discarded)
– ½ tsp dried sage
– 8 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (finely grated + the rind)
– 3 large eggs
– ½ baguette (about a 12-inch piece, cut diagonally in ⅓-inch slices)
– 1 cup parmesan cheese (finely grated)
– extra virgin olive oil

How to Make French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the onion, garlic, thyme, sage, and a generous pinch of salt. Sauté on low for about 5 minutes or until the garlic starts to soften.

Step 2: Add Broth and Simmer

Add the cornstarch and mix well. Then pour in the broth and add the Parmesan rind. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to develop flavors.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Use an immersion blender or carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender. Blend until smooth. Return the soup to simmer once more before turning off the heat.

Step 4: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a large bowl or measuring cup, beat the three eggs. Slowly drizzle in some hot soup while continuously whisking to temper the eggs.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg Mixture Back

Drizzle in an additional 2–3 cups of broth before adding the egg mixture back into the pot. Turn on low-medium heat and bring back to a gentle simmer.

Enjoy your delicious French Garlic Soup with Cheesy Crostinis!

How to Serve French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)

Serving French Garlic Soup is a delightful experience, especially when paired with cheesy crostinis. The rich, garlicky flavor of the soup combined with the crunchy, cheesy bread creates a perfect harmony. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Cheesy Crostinis

• Toasted slices of baguette topped with melted cheese add a satisfying crunch to each spoonful of soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness that complements the garlic flavor.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the taste and adds a touch of richness to the soup.

Served with a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy texture of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Offer additional crusty bread for dipping, ensuring no drop of that delicious soup goes uneaten.

How to Perfect French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)

Making French Garlic Soup can be simple, but these tips will help you achieve perfection in every bowl.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will impart better flavor than dried or pre-packaged options.
• Blend Thoroughly: For a velvety texture, ensure you blend the soup until completely smooth.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you may need to add more salt or pepper based on your preferences.
• Control Heat: Avoid boiling after adding eggs; gentle simmering retains their creamy texture without scrambling them.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like Gruyère or aged cheddar on your crostinis for unique flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes enhances its flavors as they meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)

To complement your French Garlic Soup, consider these delightful side dishes. Each one pairs wonderfully and brings something special to your meal.

1. Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad tossed in vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a hearty side that is both nutritious and flavorful.
3. Classic French Ratatouille: This vegetable medley offers vibrant flavors that harmonize beautifully with garlic notes.
4. Quiche Lorraine: A slice of this savory pie brings creaminess and a satisfying bite alongside the soup.
5. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs complements the soup’s texture while soaking up its flavors.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs create an elegant addition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis) can be simple, but mistakes can ruin the flavor. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using stale bread: Fresh baguette is crucial for delicious crostinis. Stale bread won’t crisp up well and may affect the soup’s texture.
• Overcooking the garlic: Sautéing garlic too long can cause bitterness. Cook just until soft to preserve its sweet flavor.
• Not blending enough: For a velvety texture, ensure that the soup is blended thoroughly. Undersized pieces can create an undesirable grainy feel.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Taste the soup before serving! Adding salt or pepper enhances flavors; don’t skip this step.
• Rushing the simmering process: Simmering allows flavors to meld. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for a rich taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration*: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• • Containers*: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)

• • Duration*: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers*: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals until warmed throughout, stirring between.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over low-medium heat, stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed for French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)?

You will need butter, onion, garlic, thyme, sage, chicken broth, cornstarch, Parmesan cheese, eggs, baguette, and olive oil.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis).

How do I customize my French Garlic Soup?

Feel free to add additional herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor. You could also experiment with different cheeses on your crostinis.

How long does it take to make French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis)?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option.

What can I serve alongside French Garlic Soup?

This soup pairs well with a fresh salad or a selection of cheeses for a light meal.

Final Thoughts

French Garlic Soup (with Cheesy Crostinis) is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Its rich flavor makes it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste!