Italian Garlic Soup is a warm and comforting dish that’s full of flavor. Made with lots of garlic, broth, and spices, it’s simple yet delicious!
This soup is like a hug in a bowl—perfect for chilly nights. I love pairing it with crusty bread for dipping; it’s a match made in heaven. 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: The star of this soup! Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. If you’re short on fresh, jarred minced garlic can work in a pinch but will be less aromatic.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a rich flavor, but vegetable broth is a great option for vegetarians. For a deeper taste, try homemade broth or low-sodium varieties.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is best for richness. If you need a substitute, avocado oil or melted butter will work, but they will change the flavor slightly.
Greens: Spinach is mild and tender, but kale adds a nice bite. You can substitute with Swiss chard or even arugula if that’s what you have on hand.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. You can substitute with fresh chili peppers or even skip it for a milder version.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Garlic Flavor Without Burning It?
Cooking garlic is crucial to developing its flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil on medium heat. Always start on lower heat to avoid burning garlic.
- Add the garlic slices and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes. Stir often until it’s just golden and fragrant.
- If garlic starts to brown too fast, lower the heat immediately. Burnt garlic can taste bitter and ruin your soup.
Lightly toasted garlic gives sweetness and depth, so be patient and attentive—it’s well worth it!
How to Make Italian Garlic Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 10-12 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 slices rustic Italian bread, toasted and cut into cubes (for croutons)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Italian Garlic Soup takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 20 minutes of cooking, for a total of about 35 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, hearty soup ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large saucepan or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté gently for about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently until the garlic is fragrant and just begins to turn golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
2. Add the Spice:
Next, add the crushed red pepper flakes to the pot and stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor without burning.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help meld all those beautiful flavors together!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together nicely.
5. Add the Greens:
Add the fresh spinach (or kale) to the pot, stirring until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes. This adds a lovely freshness to your soup.
6. Season and Add Lemon:
Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The lemon will brighten up the flavors wonderfully!
7. Blend for Texture:
If you prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to lightly purée part of the soup in the pot. You can also pour a portion into a blender, blend it, and then return it to the pot. Leave some garlic slices whole for a nice texture.
8. Make the Croutons:
In a small skillet, toast the bread cubes with a little olive oil until golden and crunchy. These croutons add a delightful crunch to your soup!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley, the crunchy croutons, and a drizzle of olive oil. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra flavor boost!
This comforting Italian Garlic Soup pairs beautifully with the toasted bread for dipping and is wonderfully flavorful with a subtle heat and bright lemon notes. Enjoy!
Can I Use Garlic Powder Instead of Fresh Garlic?
While fresh garlic provides a much richer flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch! Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. Keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as intense, so adjust to your taste.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any dairy toppings like Parmesan cheese. The soup will still be flavorful and delicious with the garlic and greens!
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover Italian Garlic Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove.
