Description
This Garlic Italian Broccoli Soup is a comforting and hearty soup that blends fresh broccoli with garlic, orzo pasta, and a hint of nutmeg. Simmered in chicken stock and enhanced with freshly ground black pepper and parmesan cheese, it offers a rich, savory flavor profile perfect for a cozy meal. The soup maintains a pleasant chunky texture, making it both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 1 lb broccoli, stems and florets divided
- 4 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock or water as optional substitutes)
- 2 cups water
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 3/4 cup orzo or ditalini pasta
For Serving:
- Parmesan cheese, finely grated
- Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients and Simmer: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, combine broccoli stems and florets, chicken stock, water, smashed garlic cloves, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes to infuse the broth with the flavors.
- Smash Broccoli: After simmering, use a potato masher to crush the broccoli directly in the pot. Alternatively, carefully use an immersion blender to blend some but not all of the broccoli, preserving a varied texture with both chunky and smaller pieces for heartiness.
- Add and Cook Pasta: Stir in the orzo or ditalini pasta. Cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb some broth and help thicken the soup.
- Season and Serve: Add optional ground nutmeg if using. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, then top with finely grated parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Optionally, add more fresh black pepper and a swirl of good-quality olive oil for extra richness.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock or water for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Be careful not to blend the soup completely smooth; texture adds to the mouthfeel and enjoyment.
- Orzo can be replaced with ditalini or any small pasta shape that cooks quickly.
- Adding nutmeg is optional but adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: garlic broccoli soup, Italian broccoli soup, orzo soup, hearty vegetable soup, easy broccoli soup
