1 serving of Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup contains 360 calories, making it a hearty and filling meal option. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.

Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and potassium. White cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, but it is also high in saturated fat and sodium.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutrition facts of broccoli and white cheddar cheese, as well as the health benefits of broccoli and the potential drawbacks of consuming too much cheese. We'll also provide a recipe for making Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup and suggest some variations and pairing options.

Serving size and calorie count

A single serving of Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup is 12 ounces and contains 360 calories. This makes it a filling and satisfying meal option that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. However, if you are watching your weight, you may want to consume smaller portions or pair the soup with a healthy side dish. The calorie count may vary depending on the ingredients and preparation method. If you make the soup from scratch using fresh broccoli and low-fat cheese, you can reduce the overall calorie count and enhance the nutritional value.

Broccoli nutrition facts

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. One cup of chopped broccoli (91 grams) contains: - Calorie: 31 - Protein: 2.5 g - Fat: 0.4 g - Carbohydrate: 6 g - Fiber: 2.4 g - Vitamin C: 135% of the Daily Value (DV) - Vitamin K: 116% of the DV - Folate: 14% of the DV - Potassium: 6% of the DV - Calcium: 4% of the DV These nutrients can help support various aspects of health, including immune function, bone health, digestion, and heart health. Broccoli also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

White cheddar cheese nutrition facts

White cheddar cheese is a dairy product that is made from cow's milk and aged for varying amounts of time. One ounce (28 grams) of cheddar cheese contains: - calories: 113 - Protein: 7 g - Fat: 9 g - Saturated Fat: 5.6 g - Carbohydrate: 0.4 g - Sodium: 176 mg - Calcium: 204 mg - Phosphorus: 136 mg - Vitamin A: 6% of the DV While cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and calcium, it is also high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium. Consuming too much cheese may increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health problems. It is important to consume cheese in moderation and choose low-fat options whenever possible.

Health benefits of broccoli

Broccoli is a powerhouse of nutrients and may offer several health benefits, including: - Boosting immunity: The high levels of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants in broccoli can help support a healthy immune system. - Promoting bone health: Broccoli is rich in vitamin K, calcium, and other minerals that are essential for strong bones and teeth.

Is white cheddar cheese healthy?

While white cheddar cheese provides some nutritional benefits, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium. Consuming too much cheese may increase the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health problems. However, consuming cheese in moderation may be a part of a healthy diet. It is important to choose low-fat options whenever possible and limit the portion size.

How to make Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup

To make Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup, you will need the following ingredients: - 4 cups chopped broccoli - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 onion, chopped - 3 garlic cloves, minced - 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth - 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese - Salt and pepper to taste To prepare the soup, follow these steps: 1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. 3. Add the chopped broccoli and broth and bring to a boil. 4. Reduce the heat and simmer until the broccoli is tender, about 10 minutes. 5. Puree the soup using an immersion blender or transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth. 6. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and well combined. 7. Add salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Variations of Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup

There are many ways to customize Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some suggestions: - Vegan version: Substitute the chicken broth and cheese with vegetable broth and nutritional yeast. Use coconut milk instead of cream for a creamy texture. - Low-fat version: Use low-fat cheese and skim milk instead of heavy cream. Reduce the amount of cheese to cut down on the calorie and fat content. - Adding Protein: Add a cup of shredded chicken, quinoa, or lentils to the soup to increase the protein content.

Pairing recommendations

Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup pairs well with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Here are some suggestions: - Whole-grain bread or crackers - Fresh salad with vinaigrette dressing - Grilled chicken or fish - Light beer or white wine - Iced water infused with lemon or herbs. Be sure to choose sides and drinks that are low in calories and saturated fat to maintain a healthy balance.

Possible allergens

Broccoli and cheese are generally safe for most people, but some individuals may be allergic or intolerant to these ingredients. It is important to be aware of possible allergens and consult a doctor if you experience any adverse reactions. If you are lactose intolerant, you can try using lactose-free cheese or a dairy-free alternative such as almond or soy cheese.

Nutrition comparison with other soups

Broccoli with White Cheddar Cheese Soup is a nutritious and satisfying meal option, but how does it compare to other soup options in terms of calories and nutrients? - Tomato soup: 1 serving (12 oz) of tomato soup contains around 100-150 calories, depending on the brand and preparation method. Tomato soup is low in fat but may contain high levels of sodium and added sugars. - Chicken noodle soup: 1 serving (12 oz) of chicken noodle soup contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the brand and preparation method. Chicken noodle soup is a good source of protein but may contain high levels of sodium. - Broccoli cheddar soup: 1 serving (12 oz) of broccoli cheddar soup contains around 300-500 calories, depending on the brand and preparation method. Broccoli cheddar soup is high in calories and fat but also provides some essential nutrients from the broccoli. When choosing a soup, it is important to pay attention to the nutrition label and choose options that are low in calories, fat, and sodium but high in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.