Description
A velvety Mediterranean-style soup made with artichoke hearts, lemon, and herbs. This creamy yet refreshing dish is easy to adapt for various diets and perfect for a cozy lunch or elegant dinner.
Ingredients
2 tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil
1 tbsp butter (optional, for richness)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low‑sodium preferred)
2 cups artichoke hearts (fresh, canned, or frozen), chopped
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
½ cup heavy cream (or coconut/plant‑based milk for dairy‑free) — optional
½ cup grated Parmesan (optional, or nutritional yeast to keep it vegan)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil and optional butter over medium heat.
- Sauté diced onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chopped artichoke hearts, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes until artichokes are tender and flavors meld.
- Blend the soup using an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches for a creamy texture. Skip this step for a chunky version.
- Stir in lemon juice and zest, then add cream or plant-based milk if using. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan or nutritional yeast and fresh parsley.
Notes
Use canned or frozen artichokes for convenience—just drain well before using.
Make it vegan by using plant-based milk and nutritional yeast.
Skip blending for a more rustic texture.
Add shredded chicken or white beans for extra protein.
A handful of baby spinach or kale adds extra nutrients.
Red pepper flakes give a spicy kick.
To freeze, omit cream and stir it in after reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 180–220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
