Broccoli Soup Recip

This broccoli soup is a hearty, nourishing meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Packed with vegetables and bursting with flavor, it’s an easy way to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup any day. The addition of homemade croutons adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

• Vegetables:
  • 3 potatoes, chopped (about 450g)
  • 1 onion, diced (about 150g)
  • 2 sticks of celery, chopped (about 100g)
  • 1 carrot, sliced (about 100g)
  • 1 red pepper, diced (about 120g)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tomato, diced (about 150g)
  • 1 head of broccoli, chopped (about 300g)
• Seasonings:
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Salt, to taste
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Other:
  • 30g vermicelli (about 1/3 cup)
  • Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
• Croutons:
  • 3 slices of bread, cubed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp dried garlic
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions:

1. Prepare the Soup:
   • In a large pot, sauté the onion, celery, and garlic in a bit of olive oil until softened.
   • Add the potatoes, carrot, red pepper, tomato, broccoli, and seasonings. Cover with water or broth.
   • Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
   • Add the vermicelli and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
   • Adjust seasoning to taste, and garnish with fresh dill.
2. Make the Croutons:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • Toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, dried garlic, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan.
   • Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until golden and crisp.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the soup with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a side of crispy croutons.
• Pair with a simple green salad or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

• For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the vermicelli.
• You can add some cream or milk at the end for extra richness.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High in fiber and vitamins due to the variety of vegetables.
• Low in calories, making it a great choice for a light meal.
• Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.

Dietary Information:

• Vegetarian-friendly.
• Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and bread.
• Suitable for most diets, including low-calorie and high-fiber.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, without croutons):

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 8g

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze the soup (without the vermicelli) for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• It’s packed with nutritious ingredients and is easy to prepare.
• The combination of flavors is both comforting and satisfying.
• The croutons add a delightful crunch that elevates the soup.
• Perfect for meal prep and can be easily adjusted to suit your taste.

Conclusion:

This broccoli soup is more than just a comforting dish; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create a delicious meal. The homemade croutons add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making each bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it for lunch or dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to adapt to your preferences.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
   • Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just add it directly to the soup and extend the cooking time by a few minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. How can I make this soup vegan?
   • To make the soup vegan, simply skip the Parmesan cheese in the croutons or use a vegan cheese alternative. Ensure that the bread used for croutons is also vegan.
3. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
   • Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. You can add vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or spinach to boost the nutritional content and flavor.
4. What can I use instead of vermicelli?
   • You can replace vermicelli with any small pasta, rice, or even quinoa. Adjust the cooking time based on the alternative you choose.
5. How do I make the soup thicker?
   • For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water. You can also use a potato masher to mash some of the vegetables directly in the pot.
6. Can I prepare the croutons in advance?
   • Yes, croutons can be made in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them crisp.
7. Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
   • To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce when serving.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese for the croutons?
   • Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a dairy-free option. Each will give the croutons a unique flavor.
9. How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
   • The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
10. What can I serve with this soup besides croutons?
    • This soup pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a sandwich for a more substantial meal. You can also sprinkle some seeds or nuts for extra texture and flavor.