If you’re looking for a dish that’s both light and satisfying, this creamy zucchini soup is the perfect choice. With its velvety texture and rich flavor, it’s a true delicacy that’s easy to prepare. This soup is a great way to use up an abundance of zucchini and is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether served as a starter or a main course, it’s a delicious option that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Soup:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Zucchini is packed with vitamins and minerals, and this soup is a great way to incorporate more veggies into your diet.
- Creamy Without the Guilt: The cream cheese adds a luxurious creaminess without the need for heavy cream, making it a lighter option.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, this soup comes together quickly and easily.
- Versatile: This soup can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices, or even topped with croutons or grated cheese for added flavor.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2.2 lb (1000 g) zucchini, cut into half-moon slices: Zucchini is the star of this dish, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy base.
- 7 oz (200 g) onion, chopped: Onion adds depth and a touch of sweetness to the soup.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Garlic provides a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 7 oz (200 g) cream cheese: This is what gives the soup its creamy, rich texture. Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the best results, or use a light version for a lower-calorie option.
- 1.5 tbsp vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, adding a subtle richness to the base of the soup.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Adds a hint of earthiness and color to the soup.
- 4 cups (1 liter) hot water: Acts as the base of the soup, allowing the flavors of the zucchini and other ingredients to meld together.
- 1/2 tsp dried basil: Basil complements the zucchini perfectly, adding a fragrant, slightly peppery note.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances the flavors of the soup.
- Pepper, to taste: Adds a touch of heat and balances the richness of the cream cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Slice them into half-moon shapes, making sure they’re all roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic, setting them aside separately.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The aroma of the garlic should start to fill your kitchen.
- Cook the Zucchini:
- Add the sliced zucchini to the pot, stirring to combine it with the onion and garlic mixture.
- Season with salt, pepper, dried parsley, and dried basil. Stir well to ensure the zucchini is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Pour in the hot water, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the zucchini simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it becomes tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- Once the zucchini is soft, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
- Return the pot to the heat and add the cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a rich, creamy texture.
- Adjust the Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to suit your taste.
- If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more hot water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the creamy zucchini soup into bowls, garnishing with additional dried parsley or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper if desired.
- Serve the soup hot, with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest zucchini you can find for the best flavor and texture.
- Blending Safely: If using a countertop blender, be sure to let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any accidents with hot liquid.
- Customizing Your Soup: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to create your own signature version of this dish.
Conclusion:
This creamy zucchini soup is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, satisfying meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. The combination of zucchini, cream cheese, and aromatic herbs makes it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it with your loved ones, and don’t be surprised if they ask for seconds!