Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

1 garlic clove, pressed through a garlic press or minced

1 large Yukon gold potato (about 8 ounces), peeled and diced

4 cups canned reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

5 to 6 cups (from 1 large bunch) flat-leaf parsley

Coarse salt and ground pepper

Optional garnishes (choose one): croutons, edible flowers, extra-virgin olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, or minced fresh herbs like chives

Preparation

In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-low heat. Add onion and garlic; cover and cook, stirring occasionally until onion has softened, about 3 minutes. Add potato and broth, and raise heat to high; bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium; cover and simmer until potato is tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the parsley and cook, uncovered, until parsley is wilted, about 2 minutes.

Working in batches, puree mixture in blender until smooth; season with salt and pepper. Ladle into individual soup bowls and garnish, if desired, with one of the optional garnishes. Serve immediately.