Light Silky Zucchini Soup

Experience the essence of summer in a bowl with this light and silky Zucchini Soup. Brightened with a medley of fresh herbs and a subtle hint of lemon, it serves as a refreshing starter or a sophisticated lunch for warm days.

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This European-inspired soup balances the mild sweetness of summer squash with the earthy depth of potatoes and aromatics. It is a simple yet elegant dish that highlights the freshness of its ingredients.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 medium zucchinis (about 800 g), sliced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth
• 100 ml (1/2 cup) cream or coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Zest of 1/2 lemon
• Extra herbs, finely chopped (for garnish)
• Drizzle of olive oil or swirl of cream (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and celery, sauté for 4 minutes until softened.

Step 2

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in zucchini and potato. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.

Step 4

Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer partially covered for 15 minutes, until vegetables are very tender.

Step 5

Remove from heat. Add parsley, basil, thyme, and lemon zest.

Step 6

Blend the soup with an immersion blender (or in batches in a blender) until smooth and silky.

Step 7

Stir in cream or coconut milk if using. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 8

Reheat gently if needed. Serve hot or chilled, garnished with extra herbs and a drizzle of olive oil or cream.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, ensure the potato is completely tender before blending. An immersion blender works perfectly for a quick result, but a standard blender can provide an even silkier finish if you blend in small batches.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the cream with coconut milk. For added nutrients and a deeper green color, stir in a handful of baby spinach just before blending.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this soup alongside crusty bread or with a sprinkle of toasted seeds for a bit of crunch. If you are enjoying it for dinner, a light Sauvignon Blanc makes an excellent pairing.

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Whether enjoyed as a warm, comforting meal or a refreshing chilled starter, this Zucchini Soup is a versatile celebration of seasonal flavors that is sure to delight your guests.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to adjust consistency.

→ What can I substitute for the potato?

You can use cauliflower, parsnip, or even white beans for body and creaminess. Each will add a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the silky texture.

→ How do I make this soup dairy-free?

Simply omit the cream or use coconut milk, cashew cream, or oat cream instead. The soup is naturally creamy from the blended vegetables, so dairy is optional for richness.

→ Can I serve this soup cold?

Absolutely! This soup is delicious chilled, making it perfect for warm summer days. Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving, and adjust seasoning as cold temperatures can mute flavors.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Baby spinach, kale, peas, or leeks work wonderfully. Add leafy greens in the last few minutes of cooking to preserve their color and nutrients. Other vegetables should be added with the zucchini to ensure proper cooking.

→ Do I need an immersion blender?

No, a regular blender works perfectly. Just blend in batches, filling the blender only halfway and venting the lid to allow steam to escape. An immersion blender is simply more convenient for this task.