We are doing our part: socially isolating, trying to keep busy at home with games, books, online workouts, reorganizing our space numerous times and of course endless binge-watching on Netflix and Hulu. We also have to eat occasionally. So when you get an unexpected text from your girlfriend saying she has home grown, organic vegetables for you to pick up, you jump into your car with your daughter, (I needed a designated driver at the time as it was 5’clock somewhere) in your “oh so fashionable sweat pants”, to pick your favorites out of boxes of gorgeous vegetables in her driveway, stuffing your Trader Joe’s bags until full, but not even being able to hug your friend for the amazing gift. So, Lisa Carson, this post is dedicated to you: besides eating the beautiful beats, using your home grown parsley and carrots in my chicken soup, this time I made broccoli cream soup without the cream, and it did turn out amazing. Here is the recipe for all of you to try:

Ingredients:

• 4 tbsp of butter (can use extra virgin olive oil)

• 1 & 1/2 pounds of fresh broccoli (if not able to get fresh, use frozen)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 glove of garlic, chopped

• 1 carrot, chopped

• salt & pepper

• 4 -5 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

• 1/2 cup of milk (can substitute with non-dairy product)

• 3-4 tbsp of sour cream (leave out or substitute with non-dairy version)

• homemade croutons - optional

• shredded Cheddar cheese - optional

In a large pan melt butter on medium-high heat. Add garlic, onions, carrots, and saute onions until translucent. Add stock, milk, and broccoli and bring to boil. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer uncovered until broccoli is tender, about 10-15 minutes. Use a blender of your choice to puree the soup. Probably an immersion blender is the easiest because you can blend it in the cooking pan. Unfortunately I do not own one, so I used my Ninja blender instead.

Gently scoop veggies and liquid into a blender and blend. Reserve a few pieces of broccoli for garnishing later. Pour pureed veggies back into pot and add sour cream. If soup seems a bit thick, you can add a little more broth or water. Mix and bring it back to a quick boil.

Serve in bowls with broccoli, croutons and cheese or just by itself. Enjoy!