Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner idea? Look no further! This creamy broccoli soup recipe skips the heavy cream, offering a lighter, healthier alternative without sacrificing any flavor. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend lunch, this easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's one of those best recipes that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to make. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended!)
- ½ cup nutritional yeast (for creaminess – optional but adds a cheesy flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds the flavor base of your delicious soup.
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Add Broccoli and Broth: Add the broccoli florets, vegetable broth, and water to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 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. Work in batches if using a regular blender to avoid splattering. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a velvety smooth soup.
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Season and Serve: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg (if using), and nutritional yeast (if using). Heat through gently. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Broccoli Soup:
- Don't overcook the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp florets for the best texture.
- For a smoother soup: If you prefer an exceptionally smooth soup, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- Adjust the consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little more water or broth. If it's too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Variations:
- Creamy without Nutritional Yeast: For a dairy-free creaminess without nutritional yeast, try blending in a cooked potato or a few tablespoons of cooked white beans.
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese after blending for a richer, cheesier flavor (This will add calories and fat).
- Roasted Broccoli: Roast the broccoli before adding it to the soup for a deeper, more intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fiber: 4-6g
This broccoli soup recipe is a wonderful example of easy recipes that are both healthy and delicious. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy your homemade cooking!