Wholesome Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup

Wholesome Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup is a nutritious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with fresh vegetables and rich in flavor, this soup offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a cozy bowl of warmth, this recipe has you covered. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

  • 1 head cauliflower, roughly chopped
  • 1 head broccoli, roughly chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 medium carrot or several small ones, sliced thinly
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, diced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits (optional)
  • 1/2 cup of fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Six Cheese Italian blend)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
    • Add the diced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Add the chopped green onions, celery, and carrots. Saute the vegetables until they start to soften, typically around 5-7 minutes of cooking.
  2. Add the Cauliflower and Broccoli:
    • Stir in the roughly chopped cauliflower and broccoli, cooking for another 5 minutes.
  3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
    • Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, ensuring all the vegetables are covered.
    • Add the bay leaves and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and allow it to simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables reach desired tenderness.
  4. Blend the Soup:
    • Remove the bay leaves from the pot.
    • Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
  5. Incorporate the Cream and Cheese:
    • Stir in the sour cream until fully combined.
    • Add the shredded cheese and mix until melted and well incorporated.
  6. Season and Garnish:
    • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    • Stir in the fresh parsley (or dill) and bacon bits, if using.
  7. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional shredded cheese, bacon bits, and fresh herbs if desired.
    • Serve hot and enjoy the wholesome flavors.

Conclusion

This Wholesome Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup is a perfect blend of healthy ingredients and delicious flavors. It’s an ideal choice for a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a nutritious snack. The combination of creamy texture and savory taste makes this soup a delightful addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy a bowl of this wholesome goodness and savor the comfort it brings!