This is a wonderfully hearty soup that's packed with nutritious broccoli and flavored with a range of herbs. Its creamy texture comes from the addition of milk and yogurt, making it a perfect vegetarian alternative to cream-based soups. Additionally, this soup includes vegetable-flavored pasta, adding a surprising twist and extra flavor to your meal.
The most unusual ingredient in this recipe might be the vegetable-flavored pasta. If you've never bought it before, you can generally find it in the pasta aisle of most well-stocked grocery stores. It's a great way to infuse extra flavor into your dishes. In addition, dried marjoram may not be a staple in everyone's pantry but can be found in the spices aisle. It adds a unique flavor that pairs well with broccoli.
Ingredients for Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
Carrot: Adds a sweet, earthy flavor to the soup and provides a good source of vitamins and fiber.
Celery: Gives the soup a nice crunch and boosts its nutritional content.
White onion: Enhances the flavor and aroma of the soup.
Garlic: Adds a robust flavor to the soup.
Dried marjoram: A slightly sweet and citrusy herb that gives the soup depth of flavor.
Dried basil: An aromatic herb that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Vegetable stock: Forms the base of the soup and gives it depth and richness.
Skim milk: Makes the soup creamy without adding too much fat.
Broccoli: The star ingredient that provides plenty of nutrients and flavor.
Vegetable flavored pasta: Adds an unexpected, but tasty twist to the soup.
Unflavored yogurt: Gives the soup a creamy, tangy finish.
One reader, Glynda Crook says:
This broccoli vegetarian soup recipe is a game-changer! The blend of fresh veggies and herbs creates a comforting and flavorful soup. The addition of pasta and yogurt adds a delightful twist. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying meal. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
How to prepare vegetables: Wash and chop the carrot, celery, onion, and broccoli into small, even pieces to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture in the soup.
How to simmer: When the recipe calls for simmering, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a low, steady simmer. Cover the pot partially to allow steam to escape.
How to purée soup: After cooking the vegetables, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring it to a blender or food processor. Blend in batches until smooth, taking care not to overfill the blender to prevent spills.
How to adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed to avoid over-seasoning.
How to garnish with yogurt: When serving, add a dollop of unflavored yogurt on top of the soup as a creamy and tangy garnish. Swirl it gently into the soup for added flavor.
How To Make Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
Broccoli, carrots, and celery are cooked in creamy herbed stock, then pureed smooth for this vegetarian soup. Whip up a healthy batch in under 30 minutes!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1small carrot
- 1celery,stalk and leaves
- 1small white onion
- 1medium garlic clove
- ½tspdried marjoram,crushed
- ¼tspdried basil,crushed
- ½cupvegetable stock
- 2cupsskim milk
- 2cupsbroccoli,coarsely chopped
- ½cupvegetable flavored pasta
- 1cupunflavored yogurt,or whipped sour cream, for garnish
Instructions
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In a soup kettle or Dutch oven, combine the carrots, celery, onions, garlic, marjoram, basil, and stock.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover lightly, and cook for about 10 minutes. Add the milk and broccoli, and bring to a boil.
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Reduce to a simmer, cover lightly, and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
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Remove from heat, and in the container of a blender or food processor, purée the soup, in batches, until smooth.
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Return to the pot, add the pasta, and heat through.
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Turn off the heat, and adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve immediately, with the nutmeg and yogurt as a garnish, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 160.17kcal
- Fat: 2.67g
- Saturated Fat: 1.50g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.65g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.19g
- Carbohydrates: 25.15g
- Fiber: 2.48g
- Sugar: 11.46g
- Protein: 9.77g
- Cholesterol: 10.43mg
- Sodium: 130.23mg
- Calcium: 367.28mg
- Potassium: 571.24mg
- Iron: 0.80mg
- Vitamin A: 307.72µg
- Vitamin C: 44.82mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
When preparing the broccoli for this soup, make sure to cut it into small, even pieces. This will ensure that it cooks evenly and at the same rate as the other ingredients. Additionally, when puréeing the soup, you may want to leave some chunks for texture. This can add a nice contrast to the smoothness of the soup. Lastly, when adding the yogurt as a garnish, consider using a spoon to create a swirl pattern on top of the soup. This will not only make the dish more visually appealing, but it will also evenly distribute the yogurt flavor with each spoonful.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Soup
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare all the vegetables and ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a single pot for cooking to minimize cleanup and save time.
Blanch broccoli: Speed up the cooking process by blanching the broccoli in advance and storing it in the refrigerator until needed.
Use pre-made stock: Opt for store-bought vegetable stock to save time on preparing homemade stock.
Quick-cooking pasta: Choose smaller pasta shapes that cook quickly to reduce overall cooking time.
Multi-task: While the soup simmers, use the time to prepare the garnishes or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Broccoli Vegetarian Soup Recipe
carrot - Substitute with sweet potato: Sweet potatoes can provide a similar earthy sweetness and creamy texture to the soup.
skim milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Almond milk can add a creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor to the soup, while keeping it dairy-free.
broccoli - Substitute with cauliflower: Cauliflower can be used as a substitute for broccoli, providing a similar texture and mild flavor in the soup.
vegetable flavored pasta - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa can be used as a gluten-free alternative to pasta, adding a nutty flavor and a satisfying texture to the soup.
Best Way to Present Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting the soup, ensure that the bowl is clean and free of any drips or spills. The soup should be carefully poured into the bowl, ensuring a smooth and even surface. Use a garnish of finely chopped chives or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element to the presentation, such as a small crouton or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds. This will provide a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the soup and add an element of surprise for the diners.
Focus on symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of the garnish and any additional elements on the plate. Aim for a balanced and symmetrical presentation, creating a visually appealing arrangement that showcases the care and attention to detail that went into preparing the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the vibrant green color of the soup to stand out. This will draw the eye to the focal point of the dish and create a sense of elegance and refinement.
Consider the vessel: Select a beautiful, high-quality bowl that complements the colors and textures of the soup. The vessel should enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience for the esteemed guests.
Artful drizzling: Use a small spoon to create an artful drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on the surface of the soup just before serving. This adds a touch of sophistication and imparts a subtle richness to the dish.
Attention to detail: Before presenting the dish, carefully inspect the rim of the bowl for any smudges or spills. Attention to detail is crucial in maintaining the high standards expected in a Michelin-starred setting.
Essential Tools for Making Vegetarian Broccoli Soup
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently processing vegetables, nuts, and other solid ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, whisking, and stirring. It comes in various sizes and materials, and is used for preparing and mixing the ingredients for a recipe.
Storing and Freezing Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
- Allow the broccoli vegetarian soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- If you plan to freeze the soup, consider the following steps:
- Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification later.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
- Frozen broccoli vegetarian soup can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- When you're ready to enjoy the frozen soup, remove it from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat the thawed soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
- If you find that the soup has separated or the texture has changed after freezing and reheating, you can use an immersion blender to puree it again and restore its smooth consistency.
- Keep in mind that soups containing dairy, like the skim milk and yogurt in this recipe, may have a slightly altered texture after freezing and reheating, but the flavor should still be delicious.
How To Reheat Leftover Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
Stovetop method: pour the leftover broccoli vegetarian soup into a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. This method allows you to control the temperature and ensure even heating throughout the soup. Simmer until the soup reaches your desired temperature, but avoid boiling as it may alter the texture and flavor of the vegetables and pasta.
Microwave method: transfer the desired portion of leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be cautious when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Slow cooker method: if you have a larger quantity of leftover soup, consider using a slow cooker to reheat it. Pour the soup into the slow cooker, cover with the lid, and heat on the low setting for 1-2 hours, or until the soup is heated through. This method is particularly useful if you want to keep the soup warm for an extended period, such as during a party or gathering.
Immersion blender method: if you find that the broccoli and other vegetables have become too soft or mushy after refrigeration, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup further before reheating. This will create a smoother, more consistent texture and help distribute the flavors evenly. After blending, reheat the soup using one of the methods mentioned above.
Garnish and serve: once the soup is heated through, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may find that the flavors have mellowed after refrigeration, so a pinch of salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice can help brighten the taste. Serve the reheated soup with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of nutmeg, as suggested in the original recipe, for added creaminess and warmth.
Interesting Fact About Broccoli Vegetarian Soup
The broccoli vegetarian soup recipe is a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good source of vitamins and minerals. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet and can be a satisfying meal on its own. This soup is also a good option for those following a vegetarian diet, as it is packed with plant-based ingredients. Additionally, the combination of broccoli and yogurt in this recipe provides a good amount of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and overall health.
Is Making Broccoli Vegetarian Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
This broccoli vegetarian soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like broccoli, carrots, and onions keeps the cost low. The addition of skim milk and vegetable stock enhances the flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is This Vegetarian Soup Healthy?
This broccoli vegetarian soup recipe has several healthy ingredients, such as broccoli, carrots, celery, and low-fat dairy products like skim milk and unflavored yogurt. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. The combination of vegetables provides a good amount of nutrients and fiber, which can aid in digestion and overall health.
However, there are a few aspects of this recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Consider using whole grain pasta instead of vegetable-flavored pasta to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates.
- While skim milk is a low-fat option, it may be beneficial to use a plant-based milk alternative, such as unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk, to reduce the overall dairy content and make the soup suitable for those with lactose intolerance or following a vegan diet.
- To boost the protein content, you could add some cooked quinoa, lentils, or beans to the soup. This will help make the soup more satiating and balanced.
- Experiment with adding more herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive salt or fat.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add some avocado or a small amount of coconut cream instead of the yogurt garnish, which will provide healthy fats and a velvety consistency.
Editor's Opinion on This Broccoli Vegetarian Soup Recipe
The broccoli vegetarian soup recipe is a delightful blend of wholesome ingredients. The combination of carrots, celery, onions, and garlic creates a flavorful base, while the addition of marjoram and basil infuses the soup with aromatic notes. The use of skim milk and vegetable stock provides a creamy and rich texture, complementing the tender broccoli and vegetable-flavored pasta. The final touch of unflavored yogurt and nutmeg adds a refreshing and tangy finish. This soup is a comforting and nutritious option for a satisfying meal.
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Why trust this Broccoli Vegetarian Soup Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and flavorful herbs, creating a wholesome and satisfying dish. The use of skim milk and vegetable stock ensures a creamy texture without compromising on health. The addition of yogurt provides a tangy twist, enhancing the overall taste. The incorporation of broccoli and carrots offers a nutritious boost, making it a perfect choice for a light and nourishing meal. The inclusion of garlic and onions adds depth to the flavor profile, promising a delightful culinary experience.
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