Creamy Broccoli Soup

Make this creamy rich vegetable soup in a flash. True creamy comfort.

1 large yellow sweet onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste

4-5 fresh sage leaves, minced

6 cups broccoli flowerets

1 quart chicken broth

1 8-oz bar cream cheese, cut into chunks

Sauté the onions in a bit of olive oil in a soup pot. When beginning to brown and caramelize a bit (about 8 minutes), add the garlic, red pepper and sage. Cook another 2-3 minutes.

Add the broth and the broccoli and bring to a gentle boil.

Reduce heat and simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes.

Add the cream cheese and blend soup with an emersion blender until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Serves 4.

Cook's Note: You can thin down this soup by using half the cream cheese, or substitute a cup or so of sour cream. Either way, this is creamy comfort.

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