Looking for a comforting and nutritious dish? This cream of broccoli soup is the perfect solution! Packed with fresh broccoli and creamy goodness, this easy recipe will warm your heart and please your palate. Ideal for a chilly day, it combines simple ingredients to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 210 calories, 14g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 5g protein. This is for one person and provides a hearty dose of vitamins A and C.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
7. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. (Alternatively, transfer to a blender.)
8. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
9. Heat the soup gently until warmed through, but do not boil.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for lighter options, consider substituting heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also use frozen broccoli instead of fresh if that’s what you have on hand.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy broccoli soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal. It also works well as a starter for a larger dinner.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the broccoli; it should be tender but not mushy.
- Be careful not to boil the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Adjust the seasoning last; taste before adding more salt or pepper.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the dish; stick to the recipe.
- Ensure your blender is not too full to avoid spills when pureeing.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Garnish with cheese or croutons for added texture.
- Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use vegetable broth.
How can I thicken the soup?
You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water or blend in a few more broccoli florets.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can be made in advance to save time during busy weeks.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, carrots or spinach can be added for additional nutrients and flavor.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This cream of broccoli soup is not only delicious but also a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion, and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy a warm bowl of this delightful soup with your favorite sides, and savor the comforting flavors that make it a true winner in any kitchen.
Cream Of Broccoli Soup
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg optional
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add broccoli florets and sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes, until broccoli is tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Heat gently until warmed through, but do not boil.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
