This comforting Broccoli Soup with Garlic Herb Bread is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for chilly days. The creamy soup is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Paired with crispy garlic herb bread topped with feta cheese, it makes for a hearty lunch or dinner. This recipe is easy to prepare, customizable, and offers a warm, wholesome dining experience.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 100g mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 250 ml (1 cup) milk
- 1 liter (4 cups) water or vegetable broth
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Herb Bread:
- 3 slices of bread
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian herbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Fresh dill or parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
Directions:
For the Soup:
- Sauté Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are golden brown and softened. - Add Flour:
Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and ensure the flour is well combined. - Add Liquid:
Gradually add the water (or vegetable broth), stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil. - Cook Broccoli:
Add the chopped broccoli to the pot and pour in the milk. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender. - Blend (optional):
If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Alternatively, leave the soup chunky for more texture.
For the Garlic Herb Bread:
- Prepare Bread:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the bread slices with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, dried garlic, Italian herbs, and minced garlic. - Bake Bread:
Place the seasoned bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden. - Add Toppings:
Once the bread is done, remove it from the oven and top each slice with crumbled feta cheese, sliced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley. - Final Bake:
Return the bread to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to warm the toppings and allow the cheese to melt.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the soup with the warm garlic herb bread on the side for dipping.
- Top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Enjoy as a standalone meal or serve with a light green salad.
- For extra flavor, drizzle olive oil over the soup and garnish with fresh herbs.
- Pair with a chilled white wine for a delightful lunch or dinner.
Cooking Tips:
- You can substitute vegetable broth for water to add more depth of flavor to the soup.
- If you want a thicker soup, simply add an extra tablespoon of flour or reduce the amount of liquid slightly.
- Experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or parmesan for a different twist on the bread topping.
- For added texture and flavor, consider adding toasted nuts or seeds as a garnish to the soup.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli supports immune health, digestion, and reduces inflammation.
- Mushrooms: A good source of B vitamins and minerals like selenium, mushrooms help boost metabolism and immunity.
- Feta Cheese: Provides calcium, protein, and healthy fats, supporting bone and muscle health.
- Olive Oil: Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, promoting heart health and overall well-being.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free Option: To make it dairy-free, swap the milk for a plant-based milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative for the bread.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 5 g
Storage:
- Soup: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Garlic Herb Bread: The bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This broccoli soup is quick, simple, and packed with healthy vegetables.
- The garlic herb bread adds a crunchy, savory element, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
- You can customize the soup and bread with your favorite seasonings, herbs, and cheeses.
- It’s a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, especially on cooler days.
Conclusion:
This broccoli soup, paired with homemade garlic herb bread, is a delightful and wholesome meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful. The creamy soup is packed with healthy vegetables, while the garlic herb bread adds a savory, crunchy contrast. Together, they create a satisfying and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its flexibility and ease of preparation, this recipe is perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a special weekend lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen broccoli works just as well. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen broccoli tends to cook faster. - Can I make the bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic herb bread ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days, and reheat in the oven before serving. - How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup or on top of the bread for extra heat. - Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes for more variety and flavor. - What can I substitute for feta cheese?
You can use any cheese of your choice, such as mozzarella, goat cheese, or even cheddar. - Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use a plant-based milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative to make the soup and bread vegan. - Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. - How can I make the soup thicker?
To make the soup thicker, add a little more flour or use a potato masher to break up some of the broccoli after cooking. - Can I use a blender instead of an immersion blender for the soup?
Yes, just blend the soup in batches using a regular blender. Be sure to let it cool slightly before blending for safety. - What herbs work best with the garlic bread?
Italian herbs, parsley, basil, or oregano all pair wonderfully with garlic and make great toppings for the bread.