Broccoli Cheddar Soup and Maple Balsamic Dressing Recipes

Today I did not run.  We received about 40cm of snow over night and during the day today.  My husband drove me to work today as I am a wimp when it comes to winter driving.  I slipped on ice going into work and really banged up my knee.

It looks worse in person!

 Yesterday I made some soup that actually turned out pretty good and some salad dressing!

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Ingredients:
1/4 cup of flour
1 cup of milk
1 cup of heavy cream
3 cups of vegetable broth
Pinch of nutmeg
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
2 carrots, grated (I chopped mine)
4 cups of broccoli florets
8 ounces of sharp cheddar, cubed

In a sauce pot over medium heat, whisk together the flour, milk and cream.  *It's very important to be patient here and whisk continuously.  The mixture will be lumpy, but it will smooth out eventually with the heat.
Whisking constantly, add the vegetable broth until smooth.
Add the nutmeg, bay leaves and salt and pepper and let the mixture simmer, uncovered for about 20 minutes.
Add the broccoli and carrot, mixing well.  Let simmer for another 20 minutes.
Add the cheese and stir until completely melted


Maple Balsamic Dressing
1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp of maple syrup
1 clove of garlic, pressed
1/4 tsp each of salt and pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano

Shake (mix) well and pour over salad!