Creamy Broccoli (Soup) with Almond-Romano Pesto

This starts as a fairly basic recipe for broccoli soup that includes sauteed aromatics, (onion, garlic), a large bunch of broccoli (with some florets set aside for garnish), a potato for thickening and stock. Red pepper flakes and fresh thyme add even more flavour.

What I like most about the soup, however, is the addition of spinach - it boosts both the green colour and the nutrient content of the soup. The recipe calls for fresh but I have used frozen with the excess water squeezed out. Once it's pureed, you can't detect it - only the cook knows it's there:). I would recommend this addition to any broccoli soup recipe.

The almond, romano cheese and parsley pesto is a nice touch but I often just add the grated cheese as garnish instead.

Easy and delicious!