Description
This Traditional Italian Broccoli Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish made with fresh broccoli, potatoes, carrots, and aromatic onions and garlic. Simmered to perfection and blended until smooth, it offers a creamy texture without any cream, making it a healthy choice for a cozy meal. Served with optional Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley, it’s a flavorful and satisfying bowl of warmth perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 large head of fresh broccoli, chopped into florets
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 carrot, diced
Liquids & Oils
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasonings & Garnishes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold water and chop it into small florets. Set aside.
- Sauté Onions: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook Root Vegetables: Add the diced potatoes and carrot to the pot, stirring to combine with onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes to soften the vegetables slightly.
- Add Broth and Broccoli: Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the chopped broccoli and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and cooked through.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches using a countertop blender.
- Adjust Consistency and Seasoning: Return soup to the pot and taste. Add more salt, pepper, or broth/water to achieve desired seasoning and consistency.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for a richer flavor or water for a lighter soup.
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing, as it can turn bitter.
- The soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for extra brightness, if desired.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth according to your preference.
