Garlic Italian Broccoli Soup

Garlic Italian Broccoli Soup is a comforting, rustic dish inspired by traditional Italian home cooking. It combines simple ingredients like fresh broccoli, garlic, broth, and pasta to create a hearty, nourishing meal that is both affordable and easy to make.

This soup is perfect for cold evenings, quick family dinners, or when you want something light yet filling. The garlic adds depth, the broccoli brings natural creaminess when mashed, and the pasta gives it a satisfying texture without needing heavy cream.

Ingredients

For the soup:

• 450 g (1 lb) fresh broccoli, including stems and florets
• 4 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
• 2 cups water
• 3–4 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ cup small pasta (orzo, ditalini, or any small pasta)
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg (optional)

For serving:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Wash the broccoli thoroughly. Cut the florets into medium pieces. Slice the stems into small chunks — do not throw them away, as they add flavor and texture.

Step 2: Cook the Base

In a large pot, add:

• Broccoli
• Chicken or vegetable stock
• Water
• Crushed garlic
• Salt and black pepper

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, until the broccoli is very soft.

Step 3: Mash the Soup

Using a potato masher or immersion blender, gently break down the broccoli directly in the pot.
Do not blend fully smooth — the soup should have a slightly chunky, rustic texture.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Add the pasta to the pot and stir well.
Cook uncovered for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Add a small pinch of nutmeg (optional).
Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the soup hot in bowls.
Top with:

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• A drizzle of olive oil
• Extra black pepper if desired

Why This Soup Is Special

✔ Simple and affordable ingredients
✔ Natural creamy texture without cream
✔ Rich in vitamins from broccoli
✔ Ready in about 45 minutes
✔ Perfect as a main dish or light dinner

Tips and Variations

• You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• If you want a more filling soup, add cooked white beans or chickpeas.
• For a dairy-free version, skip the Parmesan and add extra olive oil.
• If using frozen broccoli, cook for a little longer (about 35–40 minutes).

Serving Suggestions