This creamy zucchini soup is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy fresh zucchini. With minimal ingredients and a quick preparation time, it captures the essence of summer’s garden produce while offering a comforting warmth for cooler days. The smooth, mild flavor of zucchini is enhanced by fresh herbs and a hint of garlic, creating a wholesome and versatile soup ideal as a starter or a light meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients (For Four People)
- 4 medium zucchinis, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped, for garnish
1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the zucchini and broth
Add the chopped zucchini to the pot, stirring for another 2-3 minutes. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.
Step 3: Blend the soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until smooth. Be cautious with hot liquids.
Step 4: Add the cream and season
Stir in the heavy cream, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency with more broth if needed, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh dill or parsley, and serve warm. This creamy zucchini soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad.
Tips and Tricks
For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the zucchini in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil before adding it to the pot. This brings out the zucchini’s natural sweetness and adds a slightly caramelized taste to the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy zucchini soup with garlic toast or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. A dollop of Bulgarian yogurt or sour cream on top also adds a nice tang.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream with coconut milk or leave it for a dairy-free version.
- Vegan: Use vegetable broth and replace cream with coconut or almond milk.
Storage Suggestions
Refrigerating: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or broth if the soup thickens after refrigeration.
Freezing: Creamy zucchini soup can be frozen, though the texture may slightly change after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the cream, if possible. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, then stir in fresh cream before serving.
About the Creamy Zucchini Soup
Creamy zucchini soup is a versatile dish enjoyed worldwide, particularly in Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines, where zucchini is abundant during the summer. The simplicity of this soup highlights the zucchini’s natural flavor, with a creamy texture that enhances its mild sweetness. This soup is a beautiful way to use fresh produce and can be customized with different herbs and spices.
Cultural Context
Zucchini is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cooking, used in dishes from Italian pasta to Greek stews. This creamy soup is a modern take on traditional vegetable soups, emphasizing simplicity and seasonal ingredients. Blending the zucchini and adding a touch of cream makes the soup smooth and luxurious, suitable for various occasions, from casual family meals to elegant dinners.
