Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup Grana Padano cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until onion is translucent.
3. Add chopped broccoli and sauté for a few minutes until slightly softened.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and let simmer until broccoli is tender.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
7. Using a blender or immersion blender, blend soup until smooth.
8. Return soup to pot and stir in grated Grana Padano cheese until melted.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for sautéing
- Boiling for broth
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 12g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Olive oil can be substituted with any other cooking oil.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken or beef broth.
- Grana Padano cheese can be substituted with Parmesan cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Use cauliflower instead of broccoli for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a blender or immersion blender to get a smooth and creamy texture.
- Don't overcook the broccoli to maintain its bright green color.
- Grate the cheese finely for easy melting.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in a pot over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in a soup bowl with a sprinkle of grated cheese on top.
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves
- Croutons
- Toasted bread
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Grilled cheese sandwich
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the soup thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator promptly.
Food history:
- Grana Padano is a hard, Italian cheese that originated in the Po Valley in Northern Italy.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and slightly nutty.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish or as a starter.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Italian