Cauliflower, Broccoli, Pea and Cashew Soup

I was inspired by a post from Dr. Oz on Facebook for a cauliflower-pea blend called “Mean Green Cauliflower Machine”. I love cauliflower and peas and wanted a nice hearty soup that was nutritious and also quick and easy. It doesn’t get much easier than this – put the ingredients in a saucepan, simmer and blend. Viola! Delicious yummy soup. The cashews add protein and give the soup its body, and the peas add some creamy sweetness. 

Cauliflower, Broccoli, Pea and Cashew Soup
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
1/2 head cauliflower, cored and chopped
1 large stalk broccoli, chopped (including the stem)
1/2 cup vegetarian chicken flavored broth powder (I prefer this one from Frontier Co-Op, available at many natural foods stores)
3-4 cups water (enough to cover the vegetables in the pot)
1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked 4-6 hours and drained
1 teaspoon dried basil
2 cups frozen peas

Place onion, garlic, cauliflower, broccoli, water (enough to cover vegetables) and broth powder in a 3-quart saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir to dissolve powder. Add cashews and basil and bring soup to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Add peas and stir. Remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to carefully blend soup to a puree.
Serves 4.
If desired, serve topped with tamari roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds.