This blended broccoli soup is a creamy, comforting dish packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. Topped with crunchy croutons, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, it’s a perfect balance of creamy and crispy textures. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a cozy starter, or a unique appetizer for guests, this vibrant soup will impress every time!
Preparation time ⏰:
Total time : 30 minutes
Number of Portions 🍽:
Serves 4
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 500g (1 lb) fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free option)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 8g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on portion sizes and specific brands of ingredients used.
Instructions:
For the Soup:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the broccoli florets and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Use an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches) to blend the soup until smooth.
- Stir in the cream and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2 minutes to combine flavors.
For the Soup Toppings:
- If making homemade croutons, toss cubed bread with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the pistachios.
To Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Top each serving with a handful of croutons, a few cherry tomato halves, and a sprinkle of pistachios.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.
Serving Tip 💡:
This soup is best enjoyed warm and fresh, but it reheats beautifully for leftovers. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a small side salad for a light yet satisfying meal. For added flavor, drizzle a bit of olive oil or balsamic reduction on top.