Vegan Pumpkin & Carrot Soup with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, Coconut Cream & Microgreens

This rich, velvety soup is autumn in a bowl—roasted pumpkin and carrots bring deep sweetness, while a touch of spice and creamy coconut take it to the next level. But here’s the kicker: a final flourish of fresh microgreens for a burst of color, crunch, and nutrients. Trust me, this is no ordinary soup—it’s bold, it’s vibrant, and it’s ridiculously good.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 small pumpkin, peeled, deseeded, and cubed
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk, full-fat
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup pumpkin seeds, toasted
• Fresh microgreens (radish, sunflower, or pea shoots work beautifully!)

Instructions

1. Roast for Maximum Flavor – Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin and carrots with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until caramelized and tender.

2. Build the Base – In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft and golden. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, and cayenne, stirring for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer & Blend – Add the roasted pumpkin and carrots to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Blend until silky smooth using an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender in batches).

4. Creamy Finish – Stir in the coconut milk, adjusting seasoning as needed. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until luscious and creamy.

5. The Showstopper Garnish – Ladle the soup into bowls. Drizzle with extra coconut milk, scatter over toasted pumpkin seeds, and finish with a handful of fresh microgreens for that perfect balance of creaminess and crunch.

6. Serve & Devour – Grab a spoon, taste the magic, and bask in your kitchen brilliance.

🔥 Chef’s Tip: If you want a flavor boost, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving—trust me, it’s a game-changer!