Zucchini and Potato Soup

Enjoy this simple yet incredibly delicious Zucchini and Potato Soup recipe that you’ll want to cook three times a week! With a mix of fresh vegetables and a hint of smoky flavor, this soup is not only hearty but also bursting with nutrients. Perfect for any season, this dish is easy to make and will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 5-7 potatoes
  • 1 onion
  • Olive oil, for frying
  • 1 carrot
  • 2-3 zucchini
  • 700ml (2.5 cups) water
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Bread (for crunchy snacks)
  • Olive oil (for frying bread)
  • 1-2 tomatoes
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Smoked paprika, to taste
  • Additional garlic and parsley for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes:

  1. Peel and Cut:
    • Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook Potatoes:
    • Cook the potatoes in boiling water for 10-12 minutes, until they are partially tender. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Onions:

  1. Heat Oil:
    • In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Fry Onions:
    • Add the chopped onion and fry for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.

Add the Carrot:

  1. Grate and Add:
    • Peel and grate the carrot, then add it to the pot.
  2. Fry Carrot:
    • Fry for an additional 5-7 minutes until the carrot softens.

Add the Zucchini:

  1. Cut and Add:
    • Cut the zucchini into bite-sized pieces and add to the pot.
  2. Cook Zucchini:
    • Cook for 10-12 minutes until the zucchini is tender.

Combine with Potatoes and Simmer:

  1. Add Potatoes and Water:
    • Add the cooked potatoes to the pot along with 700ml (2.5 cups) of water.
  2. Simmer:
    • Cover the pot and cook for 15-20 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Add Parsley:

  1. Stir in Parsley:
    • Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Prepare Crunchy Bread Snacks:

  1. Cut and Fry Bread:
    • Cut the bread into slices and fry in olive oil on both sides until golden brown and crispy.

Blend the Soup:

  1. Add Tomatoes and Garlic:
    • Add 1-2 chopped tomatoes and 2 minced garlic cloves to the soup.
  2. Season:
    • Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.
  3. Blend:
    • Use a hand mixer to blend the soup until smooth and creamy.

Serve:

  1. Garnish:
    • Garnish the soup with additional garlic and parsley if desired.
  2. Serve Hot:
    • Serve hot with the crunchy bread snacks on the side.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Cooking Tips

  • Ensure all vegetables are tender before blending for a smooth consistency.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Potatoes: Rich in vitamins C and B6, and a good source of fiber.
  • Zucchini: Low in calories and high in antioxidants.
  • Carrot: Provides beta-carotene and fiber.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Vegan: Ensure the bread is vegan-friendly and omit dairy toppings.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for crunchy snacks.

Storage Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
  • Freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and low in calories.
  • Easy to Make: Simple steps and minimal ingredients.
  • Delicious: Rich in flavor with a hint of smokiness from the paprika.

Conclusion

This Zucchini and Potato Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!