(32) Broccoli and Cheese Soup

I was looking for something quick and warm tonight for dinner. I was expecting the soup to be a bit thicker and after reading some of the reviews on CL's website, I apparently was not the only one. Many readers suggested using only 2c of milk and also maybe using 5 oz of Velveeta and 3oz of shredded sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.

This soup was incredibly mild and flavorful, just as written. The broccoli (I used fresh) was very tender and hit the spot for me. So don't be afraid to make it just as written, if you don't like experimenting! It's not a super filling bowl of soup, but with a sandwich or a baked potato, it would be a perfect light supper! The baby liked it and so did I. I will make this again for sure.

PS: I don't think the blender step is a must, so if you don't have one or are lazy, you can skip it without stressing out :)

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Broccoli and Cheese Soup

Add voluptuous texture to a low-calorie soup by using processed cheese, which melts beautifully. Mix a small portion of the soup in the blender to add body.

Source: Cooking Light Magazine, January 2002
Yield: 6 servings (1 1/3 cup each)

Cooking spray
1 cup chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 (16-ounce) package broccoli florets
2 1/2 cups 2% reduced-fat milk
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 ounces light processed cheese, cubed (such as Velveeta Light)

Heat a large nonstick saucepan coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; saute 3 minutes or until tender. Add broth and broccoli. Bring broccoli mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium; cook 10 minutes.

Combine milk and flour, stirring with a whisk until well blended. Add milk mixture to broccoli mixture. Cook 5 minutes or until slightly thick, stirring constantly. Stir in pepper. Remove from heat; add cheese, stirring until cheese melts.

Place one-third of the soup in a blender or food processor, and process until smooth. Return pureed soup mixture to pan.

CALORIES 203 (28% from fat); FAT 6.3g (sat 4g,mono 1.8g,poly 0.4g); IRON 1.2mg; CHOLESTEROL 24mg; CALCIUM 385mg; CARBOHYDRATE 21.7g; SODIUM 897mg; PROTEIN 15.6g; FIBER 2.9g