Zucchini Soup

This creamy zucchini soup is the BEST way to use up garden zucchini. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s perfect for any occasion—whether as a cozy dinner or an elegant starter at a gathering. The simplicity of blending seasoned zucchini with potatoes creates a delightful broth that warms the soul. Plus, it doesn’t require a roux, making it easy to prepare while still being indulgent with added cream and cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh zucchini and aromatic herbs gives this soup a delicious depth of flavor.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with your favorite sandwich for a complete meal.
• Healthy: Packed with veggies, this soup is low in calories while being satisfying and nourishing.
• Customizable: Add your favorite cheese or spices to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essentials. Having the right tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Immersion blender (or regular blender)
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: This is essential for cooking all ingredients evenly and ensuring enough space for blending.
• Immersion blender: It allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot without transferring hot liquid, making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Zucchini Soup:

Vegetables and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon EACH: dried rosemary, thyme, celery salt, pepper, salt
• 1 pinch cayenne (optional)
• 5 cups zucchini (cut into chunks)

Broth and Potatoes

• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
• 2 russet potatoes (equal to 1 pound)

Creamy Finish

• ½ cup half and half (or heavy cream)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)

How to Make Zucchini Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Note: There is no need to peel the zucchini unless yours is very large. If they are jumbo-sized, their skins may be tough.

Step 2: Shred Cheese

Shred the cheese from a block for best results. Set aside to allow it to come down to room temperature. This will help it melt smoothly into the soup.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Melt butter in a large soup pot over medium heat.
1. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic, chopped zucchini, and seasonings. Cook for another 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Prepare Potatoes

Peel and rinse the russet potatoes. Cut them into small pieces of equal size so they cook evenly.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add chopped potatoes, chicken broth, and soy sauce to the pot.
1. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Skim any brown foam from the top if necessary.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Simmer partially covered until all vegetables are fork-tender; this should take about 20 minutes.

Step 7: Blend Until Smooth

Remove from heat once done cooking.
1. Use an immersion blender or transfer batches to a regular blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Now enjoy your delicious homemade Zucchini Soup!

How to Serve Zucchini Soup

Zucchini soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it as a light starter or paired with hearty accompaniments, there are plenty of serving options to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough: A slice of warm sourdough bread complements the creamy texture of zucchini soup beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: The aromatic flavor of garlic bread adds an extra layer of taste and crunch.

Topped with Herbs

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil can add a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives lend a mild onion flavor that pairs well with the creamy soup.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Adding shaved Parmesan on top provides a salty contrast to the rich soup.
• Crumbled Feta: Feta cheese adds a tangy twist and enhances the overall flavor profile.

As a Light Meal

• Salad on the Side: Pairing zucchini soup with a fresh garden salad creates a balanced meal.
• Sandwich Pairing: A grilled cheese sandwich could be the perfect complement for your zucchini soup.

How to Perfect Zucchini Soup

To ensure your zucchini soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh vegetables yield better flavor and texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices based on your preference for a personalized taste.
• Blend Until Smooth: For the best consistency, blend until completely smooth. This enhances creaminess.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère for unique flavors in your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Zucchini Soup

When enjoying zucchini soup, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are great for dipping in your creamy soup.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and tangy dressing balance the richness of zucchini soup perfectly.
3. Quiche Lorraine: The savory flavors of quiche create a satisfying combination with the soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice and meat add substance to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal veggies complements the flavors in the soup nicely.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can enhance your dining experience alongside zucchini soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making zucchini soup can be simple, but there are a few pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using overcooked vegetables: Overcooking can lead to a mushy soup. Keep an eye on your cooking time and check for fork tenderness.
• Skipping the seasoning: Zucchini can be bland without proper seasoning. Don’t forget herbs like thyme and rosemary to enhance the flavors.
• Not blending enough: A chunky soup isn’t as creamy. Blend thoroughly until smooth for that perfect texture.
• Choosing the wrong potatoes: Some potatoes don’t break down well. Opt for russet potatoes, which are ideal for creating a creamy base.
• Ignoring cheese temperature: Cold cheese doesn’t melt well. Let your shredded cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh.

Freezing Zucchini Soup

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Zucchini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making zucchini soup.

How do I make zucchini soup creamy?

To achieve a creamy texture, blend the cooked vegetables thoroughly after simmering. Adding half and half or heavy cream enhances creaminess.

Can I make zucchini soup ahead of time?

Yes! Zucchini soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I add to my zucchini soup?

You can customize your zucchini soup with ingredients like carrots, spinach, or different cheeses for added flavor and nutrition.

Is this a healthy option?

Absolutely! This zucchini soup is packed with nutrients from vegetables and can be made low-fat by adjusting the cream content.

Final Thoughts

This creamy zucchini soup is not just delicious; it’s also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. Try it today and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!