If you are looking for an easy, healthy, and flavorful recipe, zucchini cream soup is the perfect choice! This fine and creamy soup, prepared with fresh zucchini, potatoes, and a touch of cream, is ideal for warming up on chilly days. In addition, the simple and natural ingredients give it a delicate taste while preserving its full nutritional value.
The preparation is quick and simple, making it suitable even for the busiest among us. It can be served with crispy croutons or a slice of fresh bread, offering you a complete and comforting meal. Discover how you can bring freshness and flavor to your plate with this delicious zucchini cream soup recipe!
Ingredient:
3 medium zucchinis, washed and cut into cubes
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
1 medium carrot, sliced
750 ml vegetable stock or water
200 ml cooking cream (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (dill or parsley) for garnish
Preparation Method:
Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden.
Add the vegetables: Place the zucchini, potatoes, and carrot in the pot and sauté them lightly for a few minutes.
Add the vegetable stock: Pour the vegetable stock or water over the vegetables and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are completely soft (about 20 minutes).
Blend the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, use a hand blender or transfer the mixture to a regular blender to obtain a smooth cream.
Add the cream (optional): If you want a creamier texture, add the cooking cream and mix well.
Season: Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.
This zucchini cream soup is not only nourishing and comforting but also a delightful way to enjoy fresh seasonal vegetables in a simple yet elegant dish.
What is the secret to obtaining a smooth and well-balanced zucchini cream soup?
The secret lies in properly boiling the vegetables until they become very soft, which makes it easier to achieve a creamy texture when blended. Adding cream at the end contributes to a richer consistency, while using high-quality vegetable stock enhances the flavor.
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe to vary the flavor?
Absolutely! You can add celery for a deeper taste, bell pepper for a sweet note, or spinach for a more vibrant color and an extra boost of nutrients. However, keep zucchini as the main ingredient to preserve the character of this recipe.
What type of zucchini is best for this soup?
Young zucchinis, with thin skin and small seeds, are the best choice because they have a more delicate flavor and a finer texture. If you use larger zucchinis, remove the seeds and peel before cooking.
How can I make the recipe lighter without compromising flavor?
Replace the cream with low-fat Greek yogurt or omit it entirely, adding instead a bit of unsweetened plant-based milk, such as almond or cashew milk. Also, use less oil when sautéing the vegetables.
How can I preserve the freshness and green color of zucchini in the soup?
Cook the vegetables over low heat and avoid overcooking them. Adding fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, just before serving helps maintain both color and aroma.
What can I use instead of vegetable stock?
If you don’t have vegetable stock, you can simply use water and a vegetable bouillon cube to improve the taste. Alternatively, you can add a bit of sea salt and fresh or dried aromatic herbs.
How can I turn this soup into a more filling main dish?
Add protein such as boiled and shredded chicken breast, shrimp, or cooked chickpeas. You can also serve the zucchini soup with a generous portion of whole grain croutons or with seeds (pumpkin or sunflower seeds).
What garnishes pair best with zucchini cream soup?
Crunchy croutons: Make them at home with cubed bread drizzled with olive oil and spices, then roasted in the oven.
Toasted seeds: Pumpkin or sunflower seeds add crunch and extra flavor.
Cheese: Grated Parmesan or pieces of feta bring a delicious salty contrast.
How can I store the soup if there are leftovers for the next days?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2–3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup (without cream, to prevent separation) and reheat it gently over low heat when you wish to enjoy it.
What drinks pair well with zucchini cream soup?
Dry or semi-dry white wine: A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio delicately complements the soup’s flavor.
Sparkling water with lemon: A refreshing option that balances the creamy taste of the soup.
Fresh apple juice: For a non-alcoholic option, apple juice brings a sweet-sour note that contrasts nicely with the soup.
