When a chilly evening beckons, nothing warms the heart quite like a comforting bowl of soup. Picture this: the rich aroma of garlic and fresh broccoli filling your kitchen, a soothing balm that chases away the day’s stresses. Throughout my culinary journey, I’ve discovered that the magic often lies in simple, wholesome ingredients, and my Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup embodies just that!
During one particularly brisk autumn day, I felt the urge to indulge in a dish that was both creamy and nourishing yet free from dairy. So, I turned to the humble cashew, and what transpired was a delightful surprise. This soup is not only velvety smooth but also loaded with nutrients, thanks to fresh broccoli and a handful of divine ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal that feels fancy or need a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this dish will both satisfy your cravings and leave you yearning for more. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious bowl of warmth!
Why is this Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup special?
Comforting, creamy goodness: The use of soaked cashews creates a delightful creaminess that’s both rich and satisfying.
Nutrient-packed power: Fresh broccoli adds a vibrant color and loads of vitamins, making this soup as healthy as it is delicious.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip this up in no time.
Versatile delight: This soup is perfect as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite crusty bread for a heartier feast.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!
For more delicious soup ideas, check out our best soup recipes.
Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup Ingredients
• Gather these wholesome ingredients for a delightful experience!
For the Base
- Extra virgin olive oil – 1-2 tablespoons to enhance flavor while sautéing.
- Shallots – 1 tablespoon minced for a subtle sweetness.
- Celery – 1/4 cup very finely chopped adds a nice crunch.
- Fresh broccoli – 4 1/2 cups cut into bite-sized pieces, the star of our dreamy dairy free broccoli cheese soup!
- Vegetable broth – 2 cups to create a savory depth.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Raw cashews – 1 1/2 cups soaked overnight to ensure a smooth blend.
- Unsweetened almond milk – 1 1/4 cups for a luscious creaminess without dairy.
- Nutritional yeast – 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons for that cheesy flavor without the cheese!
- Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon (more to taste) to season to your liking.
These ingredients come together to create a comforting bowl perfect for cozy nights!
How to Make Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup
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Sauté: Heat a large dutch oven over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil. Add the minced shallots, sautéing for approximately 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in the finely chopped celery and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.
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Simmer: Now, toss in the broccoli and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender yet vibrant in color.
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Blend: While the broccoli is simmering, drain the soaked cashews and place them in a blender with almond milk, nutritional yeast, and salt. Blend on high for about 4 minutes until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
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Combine: Once the broccoli has simmered for about 5 minutes, pour in the cashew sauce and stir everything together. Bring to a gentle simmer once more, stirring until the soup thickens. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary.
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Serve: Ladle the dreamy dairy free broccoli cheese soup into individual bowls and enjoy the warmth and creaminess of each spoonful!
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup
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Soak Cashews: Make sure to soak the cashews overnight for a silky smooth texture. Skipping this step can lead to a grainy sauce.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh broccoli for vibrant color and flavor. Frozen broccoli can be convenient but might affect the soup’s overall taste and texture.
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Blending Technique: Blend the cashew mixture on high for a full 4 minutes. This ensures a creamy consistency that will elevate your dreamy dairy free broccoli cheese soup.
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Taste as You Go: Always taste the soup before serving! You might want to adjust the salt or add a dash of lemon juice for a fresh finish.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or almond milk to restore creaminess.
Make Ahead Options
These Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the broccoli and celery, and sauté the shallots up to 24 hours in advance. Store the prepped veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, soak the raw cashews overnight to save precious time during cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious soup, simply heat the sautéed vegetables, add the vegetable broth, and simmer for about 5 minutes before blending the cashew sauce. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of creamy goodness ready to serve with minimal effort!
Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup Variations
Customization is the key to making this soup your own, so let’s get creative with flavors and textures!
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Nut-Free: Substitute soaked sunflower seeds for cashews to maintain that creamy texture without nuts.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during the simmering process for a warming heat.
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Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving to elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.
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Veggie Boost: Incorporate additional vegetables such as carrots or spinach for extra nutrients and a colorful presentation.
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Cheesy Flavor: Mix in a tablespoon of miso paste with the cashew blend for an umami-rich taste that deepens the soup’s flavor.
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Creamy Texture: Replace almond milk with coconut milk for a richer consistency that lends a tropical twist to your cozy bowl.
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Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium vegetable broth and season with your favorite herbs and spices to control the salt level while still packing in flavor.
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Whole Grain: Serve this soup with a side of whole grain bread or a warm quinoa salad to create a balanced meal that’s both filling and satisfying.
How to Store and Freeze Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just leave some room for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of almond milk to bring back its creamy texture.
Serving Tip: This soup is best served warm, so make sure to stir it well after reheating to ensure even warmth and enjoyment!
What to Serve with Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup?
Nothing quite complements a warm bowl of creamy goodness like perfectly paired sides that enhance your meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: A slice of sourdough or whole grain bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all the rich flavors.
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Garden Salad: A light, vibrant salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch to balance the soup’s creaminess. The textures meld beautifully, making each bite refreshing.
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Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, seasoned potatoes on the side provide a hearty, flavorful contrast, ensuring a fulfilling meal that’s packed with diverse flavors.
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Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery garlic bread offers a savory, aromatic companion, enhancing the overall warmth and indulgence of the soup. Each bite will feel like a hug for your taste buds!
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Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, rounds out the experience, offering warmth and a delicate touch that complements your cozy meal.
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Fruit Tart: For dessert, a light fruit tart brings a sweet, fruity note, refreshing your palate and leaving a lingering pleasant taste after the richness of the soup.
These delightful pairings will transform your meal into a heartwarming feast that you and your loved ones will cherish!
Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of broccoli is best for this soup?
Absolutely! Fresh broccoli is ideal for this soup. Look for vibrant green florets without dark spots or wilting. If using frozen broccoli, ensure it’s not overcooked, as that can affect the soup’s texture.
How should I store the leftover soup?
You can store any leftover Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to help maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat gently on the stovetop.
Can I freeze this soup, and how?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Make sure it has cooled down completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for the soup to expand. It’s best to consume it within 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently warm it on the stovetop, adding a little almond milk to restore its creamy texture.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
Very! If your soup ends up thicker than you’d like, don’t fret. Simply stir in a splash of vegetable broth or almond milk little by little until you reach your desired consistency. Heat it gently while stirring, and you’ll have a perfectly smooth soup in no time!
Is this soup suitable for people with nut allergies?
I often make this soup for gatherings, but if someone has a nut allergy, you can substitute the soaked cashews with silken tofu or sunflower seeds for creaminess. Blend them together with the almond milk and nutritional yeast for a similar texture and taste.
Does this soup contain gluten or dairy?
Certainly! This Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup is both gluten-free and dairy-free. The creamy consistency comes solely from the cashews and almond milk, making it a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions. Always check your ingredients to ensure they suit your needs!
Dreamy Dairy Free Broccoli Cheese Soup for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat a large dutch oven over medium-high heat and drizzle in olive oil. Add the minced shallots, sautéing for approximately 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then stir in the finely chopped celery and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Toss in the broccoli and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the broccoli to become tender yet vibrant in color.
- Drain the soaked cashews and place them in a blender with almond milk, nutritional yeast, and salt. Blend on high for about 4 minutes until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Once the broccoli has simmered for about 5 minutes, pour in the cashew sauce and stir everything together. Bring to a gentle simmer once more, stirring until the soup thickens.
- Ladle the dreamy dairy free broccoli cheese soup into individual bowls and enjoy the warmth and creaminess of each spoonful.