Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Name: Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) - Sopa de Ajo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 1 baguette; 1/2 cup olive oil; 12 cloves garlic (peeled and sliced); 2 tablespoons smoked paprika; 8 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons salt (omit if using pre-bought stock); 2 tablespoons apple juice vinegar; 3 large eggs (whisked)

Published: January 2, 2026

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, olive oil, and smoked paprika creates a deeply satisfying taste that warms the soul.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a starter, light lunch, or even paired with croutons for added texture.
Simple Ingredients: With only eight easy-to-find components, you likely have most of them in your pantry already.
Vegetarian Delight: This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious Spanish garlic soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: This allows ample space for simmering the soup without splashes and ensures even cooking.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients gently while preserving their texture.
Cutting board & sharp knife: Essential for safely preparing your garlic and bread ingredients with precision.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

1 baguette
1/2 cup olive oil
12 cloves of garlic (peeled and finely sliced)
2 tablespoons of smoked Spanish paprika
8 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons salt (Omit if using pre-bought stock)
2 tablespoons apple juice vinegar
3 large eggs (whisked)

How to Make Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by slicing the baguette into thick pieces.
Toast the slices until they are golden brown. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic

In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil.
Once hot, add the sliced garlic. Cook until golden brown but not burnt—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Paprika and Broth

Stir in the smoked Spanish paprika, allowing it to cook for about 30 seconds to release its flavors.
Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the salt. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Incorporate Vinegar and Eggs

Reduce heat to low and stir in the apple juice vinegar.
Slowly drizzle in the whisked eggs, stirring continuously to create ribbons in the soup.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls over toasted baguette pieces.
Garnish as desired with extra paprika or fresh herbs before serving.

Enjoy this warming Spanish garlic soup as a comforting meal or starter!

How to Serve Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Serving Spanish Garlic Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its rustic charm. This soup can be enjoyed in various ways, and each serving suggestion brings out different flavors and textures.

With Fresh Croutons

Toasted bread cubes add a satisfying crunch to the soup. You can make them by sautéing leftover bread in olive oil until golden.

Topped with Herbs

Fresh parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top can elevate the dish by adding a refreshing burst of flavor.

With a Drizzle of Olive Oil

A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving enhances the richness and adds an extra layer of depth to the soup.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of the soup, providing balance to your meal.

Paired with Cheese

Grated cheese, such as aged Manchego, can be added for extra creaminess and flavor, making it even more indulgent.

How to Perfect Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

To achieve the best version of your Spanish Garlic Soup, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

Use fresh garlic: Freshly sliced garlic offers a stronger flavor compared to pre-minced options, giving your soup an authentic taste.
Opt for quality broth: Using homemade or high-quality vegetable broth enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.
Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices according to your preference for a well-balanced dish.
Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Pairing side dishes with Spanish Garlic Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Simple Green Salad
A mix of greens with lemon dressing provides freshness and balances the rich flavors of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables
Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients while complementing the smoky notes in the soup.
Hummus with Pita Chips
Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips makes for a great appetizer alongside the soup.
Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or vegetables offer a hearty addition that pairs well with garlic flavors.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Classic grilled cheese is always a hit! The melty cheese contrasts nicely with the warm garlic soup.
Olive Tapenade on Crostini
This spread adds briny richness that enhances each spoonful of soup while providing an appealing bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo – perfect, be aware of these common mistakes.

Using stale bread: Fresh bread enhances the texture and flavor of the soup. Always use day-old or fresh baguette.
Overcooking the garlic: Burning garlic can lead to a bitter taste. Cook it until golden brown for the best flavor.
Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality vegetable broth can affect the soup’s overall taste. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought broth.
Adding too much salt: Pre-made stocks can be salty. Taste before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.
Not adjusting flavors: Each ingredient contributes to the flavor profile. Adjust vinegar and paprika to match your taste preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
The soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo –

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious soup recipe.

What is Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo -?

Spanish Garlic Soup, known as Sopa de Ajo, is a flavorful vegetarian dish made with garlic, olive oil, and vegetable broth, perfect for warming up on cold days.

Can I make this Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo – vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the eggs or replace them with a plant-based alternative for a fully vegan version of this comforting soup.

How spicy is this Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo -?

The spiciness comes from smoked paprika, which can be adjusted according to your preference. You can use sweet paprika if you prefer less heat.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Spanish Garlic Soup Recipe (Vegetarian) – Sopa de Ajo – is not only easy to make but also comforting and versatile. It’s a great option for any meal of the day and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try!

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