2 1/2 c. fresh broccoli, chopped
3/4 c. chopped onions
3 tbsp. butter
3 tbsp. flour
1 (14 1/2 oz.) can chicken broth
1 c. milk or half and half
1 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp. grated lemon peel
Dash of pepper

If frozen broccoli is used, thaw in colander under hot tap water for about 30 seconds.

In large saucepan cook and stir onions in butter about 2 minutes. Stir in flour. Add broth and milk and broccoli. Heat and stir until mixture comes to a boil. Cook and stir 1 minute if using frozen broccoli, 5 to 6 minutes for fresh broccoli (or until tender). Puree in blender or food processor, return to pan, add cheese, lemon peel and pepper. Heat and stir until cheese melts. Makes 4 cups.