Few dishes embody comfort and nourishment quite like a warm bowl of soup. Among the many variations available, Creamy Zucchini Soup holds a special place. This recipe brings together the subtle sweetness of zucchini, the sharpness of onions, and the creamy richness of cream cheese, all elevated by a blend of dried herbs. It’s light enough for a summer evening yet hearty enough to warm you on a chilly winter day.
This soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s a tradition, a memory, and a meal that can be dressed up for a dinner party or enjoyed as a quick weeknight supper. Its simplicity and versatility make it a timeless addition to your culinary repertoire.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Vegetables
Zucchini: 2.2 lb (1000 g), cut into half-moon slices
Onion: 7 oz (200 g), chopped
Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Base
Cream Cheese: 7 oz (200 g)
Vegetable Oil: 1.5 tbsp
Dried Parsley: 1 tsp
Hot Water: 4 cups (1 liter)
Dried Basil: ½ tsp
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prep Time (15 minutes)
Chop the Vegetables: Begin by washing the zucchini thoroughly. Slice it into half-moon shapes for even cooking. Chop the onions finely, and mince the garlic clove.
Prepare Ingredients: Measure out the cream cheese, herbs, and hot water. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables (10 minutes)
Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat 1.5 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Cook the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns translucent and the garlic releases its aroma, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Zucchini: Toss in the zucchini slices and stir to coat them in the oil. Let them cook for 5-6 minutes, softening slightly while retaining their vibrant green color.
Step 3: Build the Base (20 minutes)
Add Herbs and Seasoning: Sprinkle dried parsley and basil over the zucchini mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour in Hot Water: Gradually add 4 cups of hot water, stirring as you pour. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Blend and Finish (10 minutes)
Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer it to a blender in batches.
Incorporate Cream Cheese: Add the cream cheese in chunks, stirring continuously until fully melted and incorporated. This step adds a velvety texture and rich flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Portion and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a few croutons for added texture.
Serve Warm: Enjoy the soup as a standalone meal or pair it with a crusty slice of bread.
Timing Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 180 kcal
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 13 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugars: 3 g
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Creamy Zucchini Soup is the epitome of comfort food that balances simplicity with sophistication. Zucchini, a vegetable often underappreciated, shines in this dish due to its mild flavor and creamy texture when blended. The use of cream cheese as a thickening agent elevates the soup, making it rich without being overpowering.
This recipe is timeless because it adapts to the needs of any era or audience:
Seasonal Appeal: Zucchini is widely available year-round, making this soup an evergreen option.
Diet-Friendly: The soup can easily be made gluten-free or vegetarian. Substitute cream cheese with plant-based alternatives for a vegan version.
Versatility: It works as a starter, a main course, or a complementary dish for a multi-course meal.
Its simplicity, coupled with its depth of flavor, ensures that it remains a staple in kitchens worldwide.
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