This creamy zucchini soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with fresh zucchini, onions, and a touch of cream, it’s both tasty and healthy.
What I love most is how quick it is to whip up—just chop, cook, and blend! Perfect for cozy nights when you want something simple and satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchinis: These are the star of the soup! They have a mild flavor and a creamy texture when cooked. If you can’t find zucchinis, yellow squash is a great substitute as it has a similar flavor profile.
Onion: A small onion adds depth to the soup. You can swap it for shallots for a sweeter note, or use leeks for a more delicate flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the taste beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh is always best for a vibrant flavor.
Vegetable Broth: This is the base of the soup. Chicken broth is a good alternative if you prefer non-vegetarian options. Homemade broth is even better if you have it!
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich and creamy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
What’s the Best Way to Blend Zucchini Soup Smoothly?
Blending the soup smoothly is key to a velvety texture that everyone loves. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Let the soup cool slightly before blending to prevent splatters.
- If using a blender, fill it halfway to avoid overflow. Blend in batches if needed.
- Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for ease—just blend until smooth.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if it’s too thick, or let it simmer longer if it’s too thin.
Tip: Taste as you blend to adjust seasoning for the best flavor!
Delicious Zucchini Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 medium zucchinis, roughly chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated zucchini (for garnish)
- Croutons (for garnish)
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or fresh herbs like dill or thyme
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty zucchini soup takes about 30 minutes total! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the veggies and cooking them, followed by roughly 15 minutes simmering to perfection, and just a few minutes blending and garnishing before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are soft and smell amazing!
2. Cook the Zucchini:
Now, add the chopped zucchinis to the pot. Keep cooking for another 5 minutes until they become slightly tender. You want to maintain that lovely green color!
3. Add the Broth:
Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. The zucchinis should be very soft at this point.
4. Blend It Up:
Remove the pot from heat. If you have an immersion blender, blend the soup right in the pot until it’s completely smooth. If you’re using a traditional blender, space it out by blending in batches to avoid overflow. Just be careful—hot soup can splash!
5. Add Cream and Season:
Once blended, stir in the heavy cream. Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if you love that flavor. Give it a gentle reheat but avoid boiling it again.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve your delicious soup! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top each with some freshly grated zucchini and crunchy croutons. Optionally, sprinkle with cracked black pepper to finish it off!
Enjoy your light and velvety zucchini soup! It’s perfect for any day you need a warm and comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen zucchini can work in this soup! Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess water before using, as it may be more watery than fresh zucchini. You may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly since it’s pre-cooked.
How Long Can I Store This Soup?
You can store the zucchini soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep it in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain even heat.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk like coconut milk or cashew cream and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It will still be delicious and creamy!
What Can I Serve with Zucchini Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a heartier meal, consider adding some protein like grilled chicken, chickpeas, or a side of roasted vegetables!