Ingredients
- 4 large red bell peppers
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or croutons (optional, for serving)
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Blender or immersion blender
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Roast the Red Peppers:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cut the red peppers in half, remove seeds and stems, and place cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and roast for 25–30 minutes, until the skins are charred and blistered.
- Transfer peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a towel, and let steam for 10 minutes. Peel off the skins and discard.
- Prepare the Base:
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Soup:
- Add diced potato, roasted red peppers, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, and thyme to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes, until the potato is tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
- Stir in 1 cup crumbled feta cheese until melted and incorporated. If using heavy cream, stir it in now for extra richness.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with additional crumbled feta, chopped parsley or basil, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or croutons on the side, if desired.
Tips
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- To make vegan, omit feta and cream or use plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Serves 4–6