White bean and broccoli soup

I don't know what it is about soup but I seem to make it often.  I guess it's that it is so very satisfying, easy to make, and can be chock full of nutrients.  So here I go again.  This one is a compromise between my husband and me.  I love white beans, and he loves broccoli, so we combined the two. This recipe is simple to make and can be done on a busy weeknight. It only takes a few minutes.  

Ingredients:
1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, sliced or minced
1 15 oz can cannellini beans, drained, or other white bean
2 1/2 cups chicken stock, or vegetable stock
Salt and Pepper, to taste 


Garnish:
Save a few small pieces of broccoli
Shaved Parmesan
Pumpkin seeds

In a large saucepan heat water until boiling and cook broccoli for about 3 minutes. Drain and set aside. Save a few small pieces for the garnish.

In a medium pot heat the oil, add the onion and garlic and cook on medium for about 5 to 8 minutes just until they are translucent.  Add the beans and stock and bring to a simmer.  Allow to cool slightly.

In a vitamix or blender add the white bean mixture and the broccoli, salt and pepper and blend until creamy.  Pour back into the pot and reheat to serve.

Top with saved broccoli pieces, a few pieces of shaved Parmesan, and some toasted nuts.   Sesame seeds are also good in this dish.

We eat this as a main dish as you can have a good sized bowl, along with some  toasted bread or crostini. Or it could be a first course for a larger dinner.