Roasted Feta & Broccoli Soup – When it comes to balancing comfort food with gourmet elegance, nothing quite hits the mark like roasted feta & broccoli soup. This creamy, flavorful dish is perfect for cozy evenings or when you want to impress guests with a dish that feels upscale yet approachable. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try.
Roasted Feta & Broccoli Soup
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 large bowls |
| Main Ingredients | Broccoli, feta cheese, garlic, olive oil, vegetable stock |
| Health Benefits | High in fiber, rich in vitamins (A, C, and K), and packed with antioxidants from roasted vegetables |
| Nutritional Info | Approx. 250 calories per serving |
| Official Recipe Reference | FeelGoodFoodie Roasted Soup Recipe |
Roasted feta & broccoli soup is more than just a dish; it’s an experience. From its creamy texture to its layered flavors, this soup perfectly balances health and indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting friends, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Don’t forget to experiment with variations, try new garnishes, and share your creations with loved ones!
Why Roasted Feta & Broccoli Soup?
Soup often carries an unfair reputation for being dull or reserved only for winter nights. Roasted feta & broccoli soup breaks this stereotype with its rich, nutty flavors, thanks to the roasting process. The addition of feta cheese adds a tangy, creamy note, elevating it to restaurant-quality perfection. Why is this dish worth making?
- Nutritional Benefits: Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and fiber. Feta, on the other hand, provides a dose of calcium and protein.
- Ease of Preparation: This dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
- Versatile Pairing: Serve it with crusty bread, a light salad, or even grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Diet-Friendly: With a few tweaks, it can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
- Budget-Friendly: All the ingredients are easy to find and cost-effective, making this a great option for families or meal prepping.
Ingredients Breakdown
The simplicity of this dish lies in the thoughtful combination of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Broccoli Florets (4 cups): Choose fresh, vibrant green broccoli for the best flavor. If you’re vegan, you can swap feta with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Feta Cheese (1 block, approx. 8 oz): Opt for a good-quality feta, preferably Greek, for authentic tang.
- Garlic (1 bulb): Roasting garlic mellows its flavor, adding a sweet, earthy touch to the soup.
- Potatoes (1 pound): Adds natural creaminess and thickness to the soup.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Provides depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
- Olive Oil (1/4 cup): Essential for roasting vegetables to golden perfection.
- Vegetable Stock (4 cups): Acts as the base, blending all the ingredients together. Use gluten-free stock if needed.
- Fresh Thyme (4-5 sprigs): Enhances the aromatic complexity of the dish.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a hint of spice, this addition elevates the soup to a new level.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide Roasted Feta & Broccoli Soup
Follow these easy steps to make your roasted feta & broccoli soup.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the broccoli thoroughly and chop it into medium-sized florets. Peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Slice off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the cloves.
Step 2: Assemble on a Baking Sheet
Place the broccoli, potatoes, chopped onion, garlic bulb, and feta cheese on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle generously with olive oil and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme on top for added aroma.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven. Roast the vegetables and feta for about 30 minutes or until they turn golden brown. The broccoli should develop a slightly charred, nutty flavor, and the feta should soften. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even roasting.
Step 4: Blend the Ingredients
Once the vegetables are roasted, let them cool slightly. Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and add them to a blender along with the other roasted ingredients. Pour in the vegetable stock.
Blend until smooth. If the soup feels too thick, add more stock or water to reach your desired consistency. For an ultra-smooth texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve before reheating.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
Pour the blended soup into a large pot and heat gently over medium-low heat. Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper, if needed. For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a crumble of feta on top. For a complete meal, serve alongside crusty bread or garlic croutons.
Expert Tips for Best Results
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and high-quality feta cheese make a significant difference in taste.
- Don’t Skip Roasting: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables and deepens the flavors.
- Customize: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or mix in some spinach for extra greens.
- Select the Right Stock: A low-sodium vegetable stock works best to avoid overpowering the flavors.
- Add Toppings: Experiment with toasted nuts, like almonds or pine nuts, for added crunch.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain its creamy texture.
- Meal Prep: Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick, healthy meals throughout the week.
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FAQs About Roasted Feta & Broccoli Soup
Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli, but the flavor might not be as rich as using fresh florets. Thaw and pat dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture.
Q2: Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely! Swap feta cheese with a plant-based alternative or add a handful of cashews for creaminess.
Q3: How can I make the soup thicker?
Add extra potatoes or reduce the amount of vegetable stock for a thicker consistency.
Q4: What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or even a glass of white wine for a gourmet touch.
Q5: Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 2 months. Store in an airtight container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q6: How can I reduce the calorie count?
Use low-fat feta cheese and reduce the olive oil to make the soup lighter without compromising too much on flavor.
