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Healthy Creamy Zucchini Soup: A Warm Bowl of Comfort

Rich, velvety, and wholesome, this creamy zucchini soup is the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s ideal for a cozy meal or a light yet satisfying dish year-round.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for sautéing)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large onion, chopped (brown, yellow, or white onion works best)
  • 1 kg (2 lbs) zucchinis, sliced (halve larger slices for even cooking)
  • 3 cups (750 ml) vegetable or chicken broth (salt-reduced preferred)
  • 1 cup (250 ml) water
  • 3/4 cup (185 ml) heavy cream (substitute with light cream if desired)
  • 1 cup (250 ml) milk (any fat percentage or more cream for richness)

Optional Garnishes

  • Drizzle of cream for swirling
  • Finely shredded Parmesan cheese
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or basil

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
    • Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Stir frequently and cook for 3–4 minutes until the onions turn light golden brown.
  2. Cook the Zucchini:
    • Add sliced zucchinis, broth, and water to the pot.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium.
  3. Simmer Until Soft:
    • Let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the zucchini becomes very soft.
    • Skim off any foam that forms on the surface for a clear soup.
  4. Blend Until Smooth:
    • Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until silky smooth.
    • If using a countertop blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending in batches.
  5. Add Cream and Milk:
    • Stir in the heavy cream and milk to create a rich, creamy texture.
    • Taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
  6. Garnish and Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls. Swirl a touch of cream on top and garnish with shredded Parmesan and black pepper.
    • Serve hot with crusty bread or enjoy at room temperature.

Notes

  • Choosing Zucchinis: Fresh, firm zucchinis with bright green skin yield the best flavor and texture.
  • Lighter Version: Replace cream with additional milk or broth for a lighter soup.
  • Blending Tip: An immersion blender makes blending easier, but a countertop blender will also work well for a smooth texture.
  • Vegan Option: Substitute cream and milk with coconut milk or another plant-based alternative.