Mediterranean Broccoli Feta Soup
A warm and comforting soup, this Mediterranean Broccoli Feta Soup combines the rich and tangy flavor of feta cheese with the freshness of broccoli, infused with Mediterranean herbs. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a perfect light lunch or dinner option. The addition of feta gives the soup a creamy texture and a burst of flavor, while the lemon adds brightness and freshness. Whether you blend it smooth or leave it a little chunky, this soup is sure to be a hit!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 large head of broccoli)
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (plus extra for garnish)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
Sauté Onion and Garlic:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add Broccoli and Broth:
Add the broccoli florets to the pot along with the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be cautious as the soup will be hot.
Add Feta and Season:
Stir in the crumbled feta cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. If desired, add fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional feta and a drizzle of olive oil, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
Use Fresh Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the soup a vibrant color and a fresher taste compared to frozen broccoli. If you use frozen broccoli, make sure to drain it well to avoid excess water in the soup.
Roast the Broccoli: For a deeper, caramelized flavor, try roasting the broccoli before adding it to the soup. Toss the florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until tender and slightly browned. This adds a nice depth of flavor.
Use Quality Feta Cheese: The feta cheese is a key ingredient, so opt for high-quality, crumbled feta made from sheep’s milk if possible. It will provide a creamier and more flavorful taste.
Add Garlic and Onion for Depth: Don’t skip sautéing garlic and onion at the beginning. These aromatics create a savory base that will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
Creamy Texture: If you prefer a creamier texture, blend the soup well. You can also add a bit of Greek yogurt, cream, or milk to make it richer and smoother.
Lemon for Brightness: Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brings a bright, zesty contrast to the richness of the feta and the soup’s earthy flavors.
Olive Oil Drizzle: Drizzle some high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the soup before serving for an extra layer of richness.
Variations
Add More Vegetables: You can increase the vegetable variety by adding spinach, zucchini, or even peas. These additions add more nutrition and a variety of textures to the soup.
Use Different Cheeses: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with ricotta, goat cheese, or Parmesan. Each will give the soup a different flavor profile.
Make it Hearty with Protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, roasted chickpeas, or white beans to the soup for some extra protein and substance.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika to the soup. This will give it a warm, spicy kick that balances the creaminess of the feta.
Add Pesto: Stir in a spoonful of basil pesto or top the soup with a dollop of pesto before serving for an extra herby punch.
Swap Broccoli for Cauliflower: Try using cauliflower instead of broccoli for a variation that has a slightly milder flavor and a creamier texture.
Creamy Version: If you want a richer, creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt after blending.
Herb Variations: Try using different herbs like basil, thyme, or dill for a twist. Each herb brings a unique Mediterranean flavor to the soup.
Roast the Vegetables: Instead of simmering the broccoli directly, try roasting it with olive oil, garlic, and herbs to bring out a deeper flavor before adding it to the soup.
Top with Toasted Nuts: Garnish the soup with some toasted pine nuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
Q&A
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually develop more as it sits. Just reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When reheating, you may want to add a little extra liquid (like broth or water) to reach your desired consistency.
Is there a vegan version of this soup?
Yes, to make this soup vegan, you can replace the feta cheese with a vegan feta or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Use vegetable broth and opt for a dairy-free cream alternative (like coconut milk or almond milk) to keep it vegan-friendly.
Can I add other proteins to this soup?
Absolutely! You can add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans to make it more filling. For a vegetarian option, try adding lentils or quinoa for added protein and texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you enjoy spicy food, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while cooking. You can also top the soup with some chili oil before serving for an extra kick.
Nutrition (Approximate per Serving):
Calories: 150-200 kcal
Protein: 6-8g
Carbs: 12-15g
Fiber: 4-5g
Fat: 10-12g (depends on feta and olive oil used)
Sodium: 300-500mg (may vary depending on broth and feta)
Vitamins & Minerals: High in vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and iron due to the broccoli and feta.
Conclusion:
Mediterranean Broccoli Feta Soup is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying dish that combines the fresh taste of broccoli with the creamy richness of feta cheese. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to fit your dietary preferences, whether you’re looking for a vegan option, a heartier meal, or just a flavorful bowl of soup to warm up with. With a variety of tips, variations, and nutrition benefits, this soup can easily become a staple in your cooking routine. Perfect for meal prep, a quick dinner, or even a cozy weekend lunch, it’s a dish that brings comfort and Mediterranean flavors to your table.