Creamy Zucchini Soup – A Forgotten Treasure of Comfort Food
Introduction
There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy zucchini soup — smooth, light, and heartwarming. Often overlooked, zucchini transforms into a silky, flavorful soup that embodies pure comfort with every spoonful. This “forgotten treasure” is not only quick to make but also naturally healthy, budget-friendly, and adaptable. Whether served as a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a refreshing starter, this creamy zucchini soup is simplicity at its finest — proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be heavy.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium zucchinis, chopped (about 600g)
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
½ cup milk or cream (optional for extra creaminess)
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ teaspoon dried thyme or basil (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Zucchini
Add the chopped zucchini to the pot and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Simmer
Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the zucchini are tender.
Blend Until Smooth
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot (or transfer to a blender) and blend until creamy and smooth.
Add Creaminess
Stir in the milk or cream if desired, and season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Finish and Serve
Add a splash of lemon juice before serving to enhance the freshness. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm with crusty bread or croutons.
Tips for the Best Zucchini Soup
Don’t skip the onion and garlic — they create the flavor foundation.
Use smaller zucchinis — they have a milder, sweeter taste.
Add potatoes or cauliflower for extra thickness (optional).
For dairy-free version: Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of regular cream.
Serve chilled in summer — this soup also tastes amazing cold, like a green gazpacho!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
(Approximate values for 1 serving — yields 4 servings)
Calories: 145 kcal
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fiber: 3 g
Vitamin A: 10% DV
Vitamin C: 35% DV
Potassium: 600 mg
Calcium: 6% DV
Final Thought
Creamy Zucchini Soup proves that comfort doesn’t have to come from something heavy or complicated. This light yet luscious bowl will warm your heart, nourish your body, and remind you that the simplest ingredients often create the most unforgettable dishes.