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1
For the creamy winter vegetable soup: Heat the EVOO in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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2
Add the garlic, carrots, celery, leeks, parsnips, potatoes, fennel and squash as you chop them and sprinkle with some salt and pepper.
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3
Nestle the bay leaves and herb bundle into the vegetables, partially cover and cook until softened, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes.
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4
Pour in the wine and reduce until almost evaporated.
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5
Then add the stock, bring to a boil and then turn down to a simmer.
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6
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium to medium-high heat, and then whisk in the flour 1 minute.
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7
Whisk in the milk and season with salt, pepper and nutmeg.
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8
Cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
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9
Pour the thickened milk mixture into the simmering vegetable soup, stir to combine and simmer a couple of minutes.
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10
For the cheesy croutons: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet over medium to medium-high heat.
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11
Stir in the garlic 1 minute, and then add the bread and toast until golden, stirring occasionally.
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12
Transfer to baking sheet and dress with the cheese.
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13
Bake to set the cheese and further dry out the croutons, 10 to 12 minutes.
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14
Remove the herb bundle and bay leaves from the soup and serve with the croutons.