Root Vegetable Zoodle Soup with Bacon and Basil Oil

Ingredients for Root Vegetable Zoodle Soup with Bacon and Basil Oil

• 80ml olive oil, divided

• 110g hardwood-smoked bacon, cut into 1/4-inch pieces

• 1 large red onion, halved through root end, thinly sliced

• 3 garlic cloves, finely grated

• 2 sprigs oregano

• 2 sprigs thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• 2.8L low-sodium chicken broth

• Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

• 1 very large carrot, peeled, spiralized using a medium blade or cut into matchsticks

• 1 large parsnip, peeled, spiralized using a medium blade or cut into matchsticks

• 1 medium turnip, peeled, spiralized using a medium blade or cut into matchsticks

• 230g brussels sprouts, trimmed, thinly sliced

• 2 oil-packed anchovy fillets, finely chopped (optional)

• 1/2 cup finely chopped basil

• 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

How to make Root Vegetable Zoodle Soup with Bacon and Basil Oil

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large pot over medium-high and cook bacon, stirring occasionally, until brown and crisp, 5–7 minutes. Transfer bacon to paper towels and let drain.

Pour off all but 2 tablespoons fat in pot and reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned around the edges and softened, 8–10 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until garlic is very fragrant, about 1 minute. Return bacon to pot and add oregano sprigs, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and broth. Bring soup to a simmer and cook 15 minutes to allow flavours to come together.

Taste soup and season with salt and pepper; add carrot, parsnip, turnip, and brussels sprouts and cook 3 minutes (vegetables should be very al dente). Remove from heat. Discard oregano and thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Let soup sit 5 minutes (vegetables will soften a little more).

Meanwhile, combine anchovies (if using), basil, lemon zest, and remaining 4 tablespoons oil in a small bowl; season basil oil with salt and pepper.

Divide soup among bowls; drizzle with basil oil.

Soup can be made 3 days ahead. Let cool; cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.