Lot's of cold weather across the country here in the states, particularly cold in Nashville for this time of year too! Consider warming up with a nice bowl of piping hot soup to take the chill out of those cool winter evenings. Another of Ellie's recipes "fit for company" as we like to say.

Chop your broccali florets, peel & chop the stems. Melt butter in a large saucepan, adding diced onion, then cook until soft - about 5 minutes.

Add broccoli, potato, & garlic, then cook covered over low heat for 5 minutes. (Check & stir frequently so your potatos don't stick to the pan).

Next, add chicken broth & seasonings, then bring to slow boil... Now reduce the heat & let simmer for about 20 minutes.

Remove from heat, & puree mixture in the pan with a stick blender (or in small batches in your food processor / blender).

Place your soup back in the pan with the whole milk to reheat over low to medium flame. Check your seasonings now...

Serve with garnish of chopped green onions & cheddar on top. A hearty meal indeed!

Thanks to Ellie's incredible cooking this traditional Italian bean soup is a food staple at our house, & most appropriate for a cool evening dinner this Fall. While this might seem like casual cooking, don't be afraid to share with your family & friends - promise they will eat every bite!