Ingredients

• ¾cup raw cashews, soaked
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 medium onions, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 medium carrots, chopped
• 3 large cloves garlic, minced
• 20ozfresh or frozen broccoli florets, chopped (about 6-7 cups)
• 6cups water or broth, divided
• 1-2 tsp salt (to taste) + freshly ground pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• optional: ⅓cup nutritional yeast

Instructions

• Place cashews in a small bowl. Cover with hot water. Soak for 20-30 minutes.
• Add oil to a large pot (I used my dutch oven) over medium high heat. Once hot, add onion and a pinch of salt and sauté for about three minutes. Add celery and carrots and sauté for another five minutes. Add garlic and broccoli and sauté for another five minutes.
• Add 5 cups water, 1 ½ tsp salt, and pepper. Stir and bring mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.

• Drain cashews. Place cashews and 1 cup water in a blender (I used my Nutribullet). Blend until very smooth and creamy. There should be no clumps. Add to soup.
• Puree soup using an immersion blender. You can also do this in batches using a high speed blender. I like to leave some broccoli chunky for texture. Season to taste with lemon juice for brightness, salt (I use 2 tsp with water for liquid) and pepper. You can also add 1 tsp apple cider vinegar for extra tang. I like to add nutritional yeast for umami and cheesy flavor!

• Powerhouse Foods for Post Op Surgery Healing

Cashews are a nutrient-dense food rich in protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and zinc, which are crucial for tissue repair and immune function, aiding post-surgery recovery. Additionally, they provide energy without being heavy on the stomach, making them an easily digestible option for individuals recuperating from surgery.

• Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for skin repair and immune function, aiding in facial surgery recovery.

• Broccoli is packed with vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and wound healing, making it a valuable addition to the diet during facial surgery recovery.

• Celery is rich in vitamin K and antioxidants, supporting blood clotting and reducing oxidative stress, respectively, aiding in post-surgery recovery and minimizing bruising.

• Lemons offer a potent dose of vitamin C, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation. Their acidic nature may help prevent infections in surgical wounds, contributing to faster recovery.

Nutritional yeast is a valuable food for post-surgery recovery due to its high protein content, providing essential amino acids necessary for tissue repair and healing. It’s also rich in B vitamins like B12, which support energy production and immune function during the recovery process. Furthermore, its versatility allows for easy incorporation into various dishes, aiding in meeting increased nutrient needs post-surgery.