Creamy Broccoli Soup Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Meal
Are you looking for a healthy and flavorful soup recipe that's easy to make? Look no further! This creamy broccoli soup recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. It's packed with nutrients, tastes amazing, and is surprisingly simple to whip up. Let's dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides healthy fats and helps to sauté the aromatics.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a savory base to the soup. Consider using yellow or white onions for a milder flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic contributes a pungent and delicious flavor.
- 4 cups broccoli florets: The star of the show! Use fresh broccoli for the best taste and texture.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Provides the liquid base for the soup. You can substitute chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- 1 cup milk (or cream for a richer soup): Adds creaminess and richness. You can also use alternative milks like almond milk or oat milk.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial for a delicious soup! Adjust according to your preference.
- Optional additions: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg, a dash of lemon juice, or some shredded cheddar cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Add the Broccoli and Broth: Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Blend the Soup: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth and creamy. Caution: When blending hot liquids, vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.
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Stir in the Milk and Season: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the milk (or cream) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through gently, but do not boil.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as a swirl of cream, shredded cheese, or chopped fresh herbs. Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade broccoli soup!
Tips and Variations:
- For a smoother soup: Strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending for an extra-silky texture.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese for a richer, cheesier flavor.
- Boost the nutrients: Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for an extra nutritional boost.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This creamy broccoli soup is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a great way to use up leftover broccoli, and it's a healthy and delicious option for a weeknight dinner. Try it today and let us know what you think! Happy cooking!
