Broccoli cream soup

Creamy broccoli soup with mint pesto and crispy croutons

Welcome to the world of culinary comfort! Today, I present to you a wonderful recipe for creamy broccoli soup, perfect for cool days or for those moments when you want to indulge your taste buds with an explosion of flavor. This soup is not only healthy but also extremely versatile. We will add a delicious mint pesto and flavored croutons to provide a pleasant contrast of textures and intensify the flavors.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Main ingredients
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 large carrot or 2 smaller ones
- 2 medium potatoes
- 500 g broccoli (approximately 1 large head)
- 2 slices of bacon or a similar ham
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 200 ml cooking cream
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Ingredients for mint pesto
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- 1 clove of garlic
- A handful of almond flakes
- 50 ml olive oil
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan (or pecorino)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Additional ingredients
- Roasted pumpkin seeds
- Homemade croutons flavored with smoked paprika

Preparation
1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Chop the onion finely, slice the garlic thinly, and cut the carrot and potatoes into cubes, while cutting the broccoli into small florets. These preparations will help with even and quick cooking.

2. In a large pot, add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced bacon or ham. Fry for 3-4 minutes until the fat begins to melt and the bacon becomes crispy.

3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it, as garlic becomes bitter if cooked too long.

4. Now, add the carrot, potatoes, and broccoli florets. Pour enough water to completely cover the vegetables. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Blending will turn the vegetables into a smooth and velvety cream. Add the cooking cream, salt, and pepper to taste and continue blending until you achieve the perfect consistency.

6. While the soup cools slightly, prepare the mint pesto. In a food processor, add the mint leaves, garlic clove, almond flakes, and olive oil. Blend until you obtain a smooth paste. Add the grated parmesan, salt, and pepper to taste, and mix again.

7. The croutons can be prepared at home by cutting bread into cubes, drizzling them with olive oil, and sprinkling smoked paprika. Bake them in the oven at 180°C for 10-15 minutes or until they become golden and crispy.

8. Serve the creamy broccoli soup in bowls, adding flavored croutons, roasted pumpkin seeds, and a generous drizzle of mint pesto on top.

Additional details
This creamy broccoli soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C, K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it an ideal ingredient for a healthy diet. Additionally, the bacon or ham adds a savory taste, while the mint pesto provides a fresh note.

Possible variations:
- Replace the bacon with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add red bell peppers for a splash of color and sweetness.
- Experiment with different types of cheese in the pesto, such as feta or goat cheese.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I make the soup without cream?
Yes, you can omit the cream or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a lighter soup.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

3. What can I pair this soup with?
This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or crusty bread. A glass of dry white wine would beautifully complete the meal.

I hope this recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and that you savor every spoonful of this delicious creamy broccoli soup. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a healthy and flavorful meal! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 onion 2 cloves of garlic 1 larger carrot or 2 smaller ones 2 medium potatoes 500 g broccoli 2 slices of bacon or a similar ham 1-2 tablespoons of oil 200 ml cooking cream Salt and freshly ground pepper For mint pesto: Fresh mint Salt and freshly ground pepper 1 clove of garlic A handful of almond flakes 50 ml olive oil 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (Pecorino or another aged cheese) Additionally: Roasted pumpkin seeds Homemade croutons flavored with smoked paprika

 Tags:  cream soup broccoli soup vegetable cream soup broccoli recipe broccoli recipes