Cream of Broccoli Asiago Soup

By krmatthies

Ingredients

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup carrots, cut into rounds
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Dash cayenne pepper, to taste
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 quarts water or chicken stock
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups Asiago cheese, grated

Preparation

Step 1

In a large saucepan, over medium heat/heat the olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the onions, carrots and celery. Season with salt and cayenne pepper. Saute for 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
Add broccoli and saute for 3 more minutes. Add water/broth and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Remove the cover, add the cream and simmer another 10 minutes. With a hand held blender, puree the soup.
Add 1 1/2 cups of the asiago cheese. Stir until the
cheese is melted. Season to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a little of the remaining Asiago cheese; Serve with crusty bread.