Cream of Broccoli Soup

Name: Cream of Broccoli Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: Ingredients; 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter; 1 large onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 6 cups fresh broccoli florets (about 2 large heads); 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed; 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional); Garnish; Extra broccoli florets, blanched; Heavy cream for drizzling; Fresh basil leaves; Croutons (optional)