This Easy Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup is both healthy and comforting! It blends the flavors of fresh veggies into a smooth and creamy delight that’s perfect for any day.
Plus, it’s quick to make, and I love that I can enjoy it with a crispy piece of bread. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl! 🥣🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Broccoli and Cauliflower: These are the stars of the soup, adding nutrition and flavor. You can use fresh or frozen florets, depending on what’s available. If you’re short on one, feel free to add more of the other!
Onion: A medium onion adds flavor base to the soup. If you’re avoiding onions, you can use leeks for a milder taste, or even skip it entirely. Adding a little more garlic could also work.
Milk or Heavy Cream: While cream gives a rich texture, you can use whole milk or even plant-based milk like almond or oat milk for a lighter option. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk also adds a nice creaminess.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a savory depth. If you want to keep it vegan, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You could also explore other hard cheeses like Pecorino if you enjoy different tastes.
How Do You Get That Creamy Texture?
The key to achieving a creamy texture without overly relying on cream is blending! After cooking your veggies until tender, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree everything, making it smooth and velvety.
- If using a blender, work in small batches to avoid spills. Always allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to prevent pressure build-up.
- Add the milk or cream only after pureeing for that extra creamy touch!
- Make sure to adjust the seasoning at this point as blending can sometimes dull the flavors.
Easy Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh pea shoots or microgreens for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it an easy dish to whip up in about 40 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant. This will create a delicious base for your soup!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, toss in the broccoli and cauliflower florets. Stir everything together so the veggies get coated in the onion and garlic mixture. This will enhance their flavor!
3. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the broth until it covers the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli and cauliflower are tender. This is when those wonderful flavors will come together.
4. Blend It Smooth:
Once the veggies are soft, it’s time to blend! If you have an immersion blender, use it to puree the soup right in the pot until it’s all smooth and creamy. If you’re using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
5. Add Creaminess:
Now, stir in the milk or cream, Parmesan cheese, and the optional nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Warm the soup through gently, avoiding a boil.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh pea shoots or microgreens for a touch of color and crunch. It’s ready to enjoy!
7. Enjoy Your Soup!
Serve hot, and savor the creamy, comforting goodness of your cauliflower and broccoli soup. Perfect with some crusty bread on the side!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Soup
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli and cauliflower work perfectly in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them—simply add them directly to the pot and adjust the cooking time slightly, if needed, until they’re tender.
What Can I Substitute for Cream?
If you want to lighten it up, you can use whole milk or even a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For a vegan option, coconut milk adds creaminess too, though it will give a slight coconut flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to sneak in other veggies like carrots or spinach. Just keep in mind that they might affect the cooking time, so adjust accordingly to ensure everything is tender!
