This creamy zucchini soup is perfect for a cozy meal. With fresh zucchini, onions, and a splash of cream, it’s both tasty and comforting!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just blend, heat, and you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl of goodness. Perfect with crusty bread on the side! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is key for this soup. If zucchini isn’t available, you could try using yellow squash or even a mix of both for a bit of variety!
Onion: I like yellow or sweet onions for their mild flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, you can substitute with leeks or shallots for a similar taste.
Vegetable Broth: Vegetable broth adds depth. Chicken broth works too for non-vegan options. You can also use water, but consider adding a bit more seasoning.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can easily substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option, or skip it for a lighter soup.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan is delicious, but you could use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy, perfect for vegan diets!
How Can I Get My Zucchini Soup Smooth and Creamy?
The key to a smooth texture is blending the soup adequately! Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking, let the soup cool a bit before blending to avoid splatters.
- If using a traditional blender, fill it half-full, and blend in batches. Be cautious with hot liquids!
- For a finer texture, strain the soup after blending, if desired, but I usually like to keep it all in.
- Once blended, stir in any cream or cheese for that luxurious feel.
Enjoy making your soup smooth; it makes a big difference in the overall vibe of the dish!
Delicious Zucchini Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 4 medium zucchinis, washed and chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
For Garnish:
- Croutons
- Freshly shaved raw zucchini (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking. In total, expect to spend around 40 minutes to create this comforting soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onions are soft and fragrant. This step is key to developing flavor!
2. Cook the Zucchini:
Add the chopped zucchini to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the zucchini to soften slightly before adding the broth.
3. Simmer Everything Together:
Now, pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and cooked through. You want it soft enough to blend easily.
4. Blend the Soup:
Take the pot off the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s nice and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just remember to allow steam to escape by not filling the blender too full.
5. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream, if you’re using it, along with the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavors just the way you like!
6. Final Touches:
If necessary, gently reheat the soup but avoid boiling it after adding the cream—this helps keep the mixture creamy. Get ready to serve!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of black pepper, croutons, and some freshly shaved raw zucchini for a nice crunch. Add a bit of extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired. Pair with crusty bread for a deliciously cozy meal!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting zucchini soup!
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just be sure to thaw it first and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the soup to prevent it from becoming too watery.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Zucchini Soup?
Leftover zucchini soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, omit the heavy cream and cheese, or substitute with coconut milk for creaminess and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. You can also use vegetable bouillon to enhance the soup’s taste!
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches. You could also serve it with a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
