Hello, soup lovers! Looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s both nutritious and delicious? This Italian Broccoli Soup is perfect for cozy dinners, featuring a creamy texture, wholesome broccoli, and tender pasta, all topped with a drizzle of olive oil and Parmesan. Let’s explore how to create this delightful soup that brings warmth and flavor to your table.
Introduction
Broccoli soup has been cherished for generations, but this Italian Broccoli Soup adds a unique twist. Combining the rich flavors of garlic, chicken broth, and a hint of nutmeg, this recipe elevates the humble broccoli to a sophisticated and flavorful dish. Perfect for a light lunch, a dinner starter, or even a main course, this soup is versatile and satisfying. With the addition of pasta like orzo or ditalini, it becomes a filling meal that’s both comforting and nourishing. Whether served on its own or with crusty bread, this soup will warm your heart and soul.
Ingredients
To prepare Italian Broccoli Soup, you’ll need:
- 1 pound broccoli, cut into stems and florets
- 4 cups chicken broth (can substitute vegetable broth or use all water)
- 2 cups water
- 3–4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Fresh black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 3/4 cup orzo or ditalini pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Extra virgin olive oil, for garnish
These simple, fresh ingredients combine to create a rich and flavorful soup.
How to Make Italian Broccoli Soup
Here’s how to prepare this delicious Italian Broccoli Soup:
In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, water, smashed garlic cloves, salt, black pepper, and ground nutmeg (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once the broth is boiling, add the broccoli florets and stems to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
While the broccoli is cooking, prepare the orzo or ditalini pasta in a separate pot according to the package instructions. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside.
When the broccoli is tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, or transfer the soup to a blender in batches to puree until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids to avoid splatters.
Return the pureed soup to the pot if you used a blender. Stir in the cooked pasta and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over each serving and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Enjoy this hearty, creamy Italian Broccoli Soup, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you’re craving a comforting meal.
Helpful Tips
- Broccoli Prep: Use fresh broccoli for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen broccoli, reduce the cooking time slightly, as it will soften faster.
- Creamier Texture: Add a splash of cream or milk to the pureed soup for an even richer, creamier texture.
- Vegan Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the Parmesan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Pasta Alternatives: Try substituting the orzo or ditalini with another small pasta, such as macaroni or mini shells, to switch up the texture.
Cooking Tips
To make your Italian Broccoli Soup even better, keep these tips in mind:
- Blending Hot Liquids: If you don’t have an immersion blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid accidents.
- Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta separately to ensure it doesn’t overcook or absorb too much liquid while simmering in the soup.
- Make It Ahead: This soup stores well in the refrigerator. Make it a day ahead to let the flavors develop even more.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Italian Broccoli Soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks. For a complete meal, pair it with a light salad or roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added freshness and color. This soup is equally delightful as a starter or a standalone dish.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional benefits of Italian Broccoli Soup:
- Calories: 220 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 680mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 20%
- Vitamin C: 80%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 8%
With its blend of healthy broccoli, protein-packed pasta, and flavorful broth, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the soup thickens upon standing, add a splash of water or broth when reheating to achieve the desired consistency.
Reheat: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
For best results, store the pasta separately if making in advance to prevent it from becoming overly soft.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, you can freeze the pureed broccoli soup before adding the pasta. When reheating, prepare fresh pasta and stir it in before serving.
What can I use instead of orzo or ditalini? Small pasta shapes like pearl couscous, macaroni, or even rice work well as substitutes.
Can I make this soup gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the Parmesan with a gluten-free cheese alternative if needed.
Related Recipes
Here are a few recipes you might enjoy if you love Italian Broccoli Soup:
- Creamy Spinach and Tortellini Soup
- Classic Minestrone Soup
- Roasted Cauliflower and Garlic Soup
- Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple yet flavorful recipe for Italian Broccoli Soup. With its creamy texture, rich garlic notes, and tender pasta, this soup is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it out and let us know how it turned out. Buon appetito!