Broccoli-Ham Soup
A hearty, flavorful soup combining tender broccoli, savory ham, fresh tomatoes, and pasta, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ham and garlic in olive oil for about 3 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes, tomato juice, chicken stock, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add chopped broccoli and pasta. Cook until all ingredients are tender, about 20 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve and sprinkle each serving with cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using smoked ham for a richer flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, swap the ham for diced tofu or mushrooms. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the taste as well. For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the broccoli before adding it back to the pot. Feel free to use leftover chicken stock from other dishes, like Susan'S Chicken Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly grated cheese for a creamy finish. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Grater Tater Casserole. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can alter the texture of the broccoli.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Broccoli-Ham Soup contains roughly 691 calories, with 18g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), protein (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1570mg per serving (68% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen broccoli for fresh. Just be sure to add it a little later in the cooking process to prevent it from becoming too soft. Thaw it beforehand for even cooking, and consider reducing the cooking time to about 15 minutes.
What can I do if the soup is too salty?
If your soup turns out too salty, try adding a diced potato while it simmers. The potato will absorb some of the saltiness. You can also add a bit of water or low-sodium broth to dilute the flavor, then adjust the seasoning as needed.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the pasta, as it can become mushy upon reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).