Broccoli bonanza: try our no-fuss soup recipe for a healthy treat

Indulge in a culinary masterpiece with our exquisite recipe for broccoli soup using fresh broccoli. This creamy, comforting, and nutritious soup is a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that will warm your soul from the inside out. With its vibrant green hue and an abundance of health benefits, this soup is a must-try for any broccoli enthusiast or health-conscious foodie.

Ingredients

• 1 head of fresh broccoli, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 cup of milk (or cream for a richer flavor)
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Sauté the aromatics: Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli: Add the chopped broccoli to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli has softened slightly but still retains its vibrant color.
3. Pour in the broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
4. Purée the soup: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, purée the soup until smooth and creamy. For a chunkier soup, blend only partially.
5. Add the milk: Gradually stir in the milk until the desired consistency is reached. For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk.
6. Season to taste: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings, such as dried oregano or thyme, if desired.
7. Serve immediately: Ladle the hot broccoli soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Health Benefits

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, and this soup is a great way to reap its many benefits. Broccoli is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like potassium, calcium, and iron. It is also a good source of fiber and antioxidants. Consuming broccoli soup may help boost immunity, improve heart health, and reduce inflammation.

Tips

• For a sweeter soup, add a dash of honey or maple syrup to the pot before blending.
• If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until smooth.
• To make the soup ahead of time, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over medium heat before serving.
• This soup is also freezer-friendly. Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

• Roasted Broccoli Soup: Roast the broccoli florets in the oven before adding them to the soup for a slightly smoky flavor.
• Cheesy Broccoli Soup: Add more grated Parmesan cheese or cheddar cheese to the soup for a cheesy twist.
• Spicy Broccoli Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the soup for a bit of heat.
• Creamy Broccoli Spinach Soup: Add a handful of fresh spinach leaves to the soup for an extra dose of greens and a vibrant color.

Ultimate Broccoli Experience

Pair this delectable broccoli soup with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate broccoli experience. The creamy soup will perfectly complement the crispy bread and provide a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling warm and content.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh broccoli?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw it before adding it to the soup.
Q: What can I use instead of milk?
A: You can use almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk instead of milk.
Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: You can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the soup while it’s simmering. Stir until thickened.