Creamy Broccoli Soup

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • ⅓ cup chopped carrots
  • 1 pound broccoli (stems diced, florets chopped)
  • ¾ teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 small potato, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or great northern)
  • 1½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 cups cubed bread for croutons
  • ¼ cup fresh dill (don’t skip — it brightens the flavor!)

Optional: 2–4 tablespoons nutritional yeast, for a savory “cheesy” flavor

INSTRUCTION

  1. Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F and line 2 small baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, broccoli stems, salt, and pepper. Sauté until softened, about 10 minutes. Stir in potatoes and garlic, then add broth and simmer 20 minutes, until potatoes are tender. Let cool slightly.
  3. Prepare broccoli: Set aside 1 cup of broccoli florets for roasting. Steam the remaining florets over 1 inch of simmering water for 5 minutes, until tender.
  4. Roast broccoli and croutons: Toss the reserved broccoli and bread cubes with olive oil and a pinch of salt on the prepared baking sheets. Roast 10–15 minutes until bread is crispy and broccoli is browned.
  5. Blend soup: Transfer the soup to a blender and add cashews, apple cider vinegar, and mustard. Blend until creamy, in batches if needed.
  6. Finish soup: Add steamed broccoli, dill, and lemon juice. Pulse until broccoli is incorporated but still slightly chunky. Thin with ½ cup water if needed. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with roasted broccoli and croutons.

Inspired by: https://www.loveandlemons.com/vegan-broccoli-soup/comment-page-13/#comments

BENEFITS

Broccoli is a true nutritional superstar, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber while being low in calories. It’s especially rich in vitamin C, which supports immune health, and vitamin K, important for bone strength and blood clotting. Broccoli also contains phytonutrients and antioxidants, including sulforaphane, which may help protect cells and support overall wellness. Its high fiber content promotes healthy digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Steamed, roasted, or blended into soups, broccoli adds a satisfying crunch, vibrant color, and a nutrient boost to any meal.