Traditional Italian Broccoli Soup

Bowl of broccoli soup on a striped cutting board with a spoon, red cloth, and dish if shredded cheese next to it.

Italian broccoli soup is rustic and comforting with fresh broccoli, garlic, herbs, and just a touch of heat. Blended until smooth with tender pieces left throughout, it’s finished with rice and parmesan for a hearty bowl that's as cozy as it is satisfying.

Course Soups

Cuisine Italian

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Total Time 30

Servings servings

Calories 88kcal

Author Diane Gail

Ingredients

1 lb fresh broccoli chopped
6 cups chicken broth
3 large garlic cloves minced
2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
2 cup cooked rice
1/2 cup fresh shredded parmesan cheese
extra parmesan cheese for garnish optional
fresh ground black pepper for garnish optional

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Add broccoli to pot: Place the chopped broccoli in a large soup pot and pour in enough chicken broth to just cover it.
Season the soup base: Add garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper to the pot for flavor.
Bring to a boil: Turn the heat to high and bring the pot to a rolling boil.
Simmer and cover: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer until the broccoli is soft and tender.
Blend partially: Use an immersion blender to puree about 75% of the soup, leaving some texture and broccoli pieces.
Add rice and cheese: Stir in the cooked rice, shredded parmesan, and the remaining chicken broth.
Heat to serve: Warm the soup through gently without bringing it back to a boil to preserve texture and flavor.
Garnish and serve: Ladle into bowls and top with extra parmesan and freshly ground black pepper if desired.

Notes

Use fresh broccoli for best flavor: It gives the soup a clean, vibrant taste and tender texture.
Don't overblend: Leaving a portion unblended adds body and interest to the soup's texture.
Cooked rice shortens prep time: This recipe is great for using up leftover rice from a previous meal.
Add broth gradually if needed: Depending on the broccoli size, you may need slightly more or less broth.
Parmesan adds richness: For the best flavor, use freshly shredded parmesan rather than pre-grated.

Nutrition