Aromatic white wine and garlic soup made with roasted garlic, herbs, and a silky broth. This elegant and comforting soup is perfect as a Valentine’s Day starter or refined dinner appetizer.
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over low to medium heat.
Add garlic cloves and cook gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until soft and lightly golden. Do not brown.
Add chopped onion or shallot and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
Pour in white wine and simmer for 5–7 minutes to reduce slightly and cook off alcohol.
Add stock, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
Remove bay leaf and thyme sprig.
Blend the soup until smooth or leave slightly rustic, depending on preference.
Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
Ladle into warm bowls. Garnish with croutons, herbs, and Parmesan if desired.
Serve immediately.
Wine
Sauvignon Blanc
Pinot Grigio
Dry Riesling
Cocktails
French 75
White Negroni
Sides
Gruyère toast
Parmesan crisps
Simple green salad
Use gentle heat to avoid bitter garlic
Always choose a dry white wine
Lemon juice adds balance — use sparingly
Parmesan adds richness but is optional
Perfect Valentine’s starter before seafood, poultry, or vegetarian mains
4 servings