Did you know that broccoli benefits your brain health by functioning as an antioxidant? Antioxidants fight oxidation in the body and oxidative stress is related to aging, memory loss, Alzheimer’s and cognitive decline. Broccoli is also rich in glycosylates, which break down to form a molecule that is known to diminish the activation of carcinogens. Broccoli also brings along 60mg of calcium per cooked cup AND 22 mcg of vitamin K, which activates proteins in bone formation and mineralization. Vitamin K has also been linked to better memory and cognitive function.This tasty recipe further ups the calcium ante with the addition of Greek yogurt and cheddar cheese.
Healthy Broccoli Cheese Soup for Bone & Brain Health
- 2 T. olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 lb. fresh broccoli or broccolini, cut into small pieces
- 1 large raw potato, peeled and chopped
- 4 c. organic vegetable broth
- 1 t. salt
- ½ t. pepper
- ½ c. Greek yogurt
- 6 oz. shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 chopped scallions and crisp fried turkey bacon for garnish (optional)
Heat oil in a large soup pan. Sauté onion until translucent 4-5 minutes. Add chopped garlic, broccoli, potato, broth, salt/pepper. Cook until the potato is soft, about 15 minutes. Remove soup from heat, let rest a few minutes then place in blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the soup pan. Stir in the chopped broccoli and cook for 5 minutes. Stir in yogurt and 1-1/4 cups of shredded cheese, saving remainder. Heat through. Ladle into soup bowls and top with extra cheese, scallions and baked/fried crumbled turkey bacon if desired.