Name: Warming Italian Broccoli Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups broccoli florets; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream or milk (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

A bowl of warming Italian Broccoli Soup garnished with fresh herbs.

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Why make this recipe

Warming Italian Broccoli Soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. It is packed with healthy broccoli and flavored with garlic and onions, making it both delicious and nutritious. This soup is easy to prepare and serves as a great starter or a light meal on its own.

How to make Warming Italian Broccoli Soup

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup heavy cream or milk (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer in batches to a blender.
If desired, stir in the heavy cream or milk for a creamier texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to serve Warming Italian Broccoli Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a wholesome meal.

How to store Warming Italian Broccoli Soup

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until hot. If the soup thickens too much while stored, you can add a little broth or water when reheating.

Tips to make Warming Italian Broccoli Soup

For a smoother texture, blend the soup longer.
If you want a thicker soup, you can add more broccoli or reduce the broth.
Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Variation

You can add other vegetables like carrots or peas for more flavors. Alternatively, try using different herbs such as thyme or basil to change the taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this soup. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! You can use plant-based cream or milk and ensure that the broth is vegetable-based to make it vegan-friendly.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this soup a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will taste great when reheated.