Looking for a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s both creamy and packed with nutritious goodness? This Cream of Broccoli Soup is a delicious way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying a rich, velvety texture. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe is simple to make, uses wholesome ingredients, and is ideal as a light meal or a hearty starter. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you’ll be ready to enjoy a creamy, savory bowl of broccoli goodness. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Cream of Broccoli Soup is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying and healthy meal. Here are just a few reasons it might become your new go-to:
- Packed with Nutrients: Broccoli is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic ingredients you likely already have on hand.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Adjust the thickness, make it vegan, or add extra flavors as desired.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Cook Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pot, stirring to coat with the aromatics. Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Blend Until Smooth: Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender (be careful with the hot liquid!).
- Add Creaminess: Stir in the milk or cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce slightly.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated cheese if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for a Perfect Cream of Broccoli Soup
- Adjust the Consistency: For a thicker soup, add less broth; for a thinner soup, add a bit more.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works best, but frozen can be used in a pinch.
- Make It Vegan: Use vegetable broth and replace the milk or cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy broccoli soup with these sides for an even heartier meal:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Side Salad: A fresh, green salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic companion for creamy soups.
Final Thoughts
This Cream of Broccoli Soup is the ultimate comfort food – creamy, nutritious, and easy to prepare. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a cozy meal while getting a good dose of vegetables, and it’s easy to make it your own. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch, this broccoli soup is sure to satisfy. Enjoy a bowl today !