Zucchini soup is a classic comfort food that has been a staple in many homes due to its simplicity, versatility, and rich flavor. This particular recipe for Creamy Zucchini Soup with cream cheese is a nourishing and satisfying dish that is perfect for any season. Zucchini, known for its mild flavor and light texture, combines wonderfully with savory ingredients like garlic, onion, and herbs, creating a wholesome and delicious meal. The addition of cream cheese adds a rich and creamy consistency, turning the soup into a comforting dish that can be enjoyed as a starter, lunch, or light dinner.
This creamy zucchini soup is ideal for busy days when you want something quick and flavorful yet comforting. The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few basic ingredients, and can be made in under an hour. It’s also a great way to use up an abundance of zucchini, which is in season during the summer months but can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy meal on a cold evening or preparing it as part of a larger spread, this soup is sure to be a hit.
The combination of creamy texture, aromatic herbs, and a hint of garlic makes this soup a timeless dish that will never go out of style. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting to explore the joys of homemade soups, this zucchini soup is an excellent dish to add to your culinary repertoire.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Vegetables:
- Zucchini: 2.2 lb (1000 g), cut into half-moon slices
Zucchini adds a light, fresh flavor and a tender texture to the soup. It’s also low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals. - Onion: 7 oz (200 g), chopped
Onions provide a savory depth to the soup. They are a base flavor that pairs well with zucchini and enhances the overall taste of the dish. - Garlic: 1 clove, minced
Garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor that complements the mildness of zucchini and onions. It’s a key ingredient for a rich and savory taste.
For the Base:
- Cream Cheese: 7 oz (200 g)
Cream cheese adds a creamy, smooth texture and a slightly tangy flavor that balances the mildness of zucchini and onions. It helps create the creamy base for the soup. - Vegetable Oil: 1.5 tbsp
Vegetable oil helps sauté the onions and garlic, creating a fragrant base for the soup. - Dried Parsley: 1 tsp
Dried parsley adds a hint of freshness and mild herby flavor to the soup, balancing the richness of the cream cheese. - Hot Water: 4 cups (1 liter)
Hot water forms the liquid base of the soup, ensuring it is the right consistency. You can also use vegetable broth for added flavor. - Dried Basil: ½ tsp
Dried basil contributes a subtle, aromatic flavor that complements the zucchini and herbs in the soup. - Salt: To taste
Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and brings everything together. - Pepper: To taste
Pepper adds a touch of heat and spice, elevating the flavor of the soup.
Steps to Make Creamy Zucchini Soup:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice it into half-moon shapes. Set aside.
- Peel and chop the onion. Mince the garlic.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat 1.5 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and softened. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the Zucchini:
- Add the sliced zucchini to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Add 1 tsp of dried parsley and ½ tsp of dried basil. Stir to incorporate.
- Add Water:
- Pour in 4 cups (1 liter) of hot water (or vegetable broth if preferred). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is completely tender.
- Blend the Soup:
- After the zucchini has softened, remove the pot from the heat.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be careful as the soup will be hot.
- Add Cream Cheese:
- Return the blended soup to the heat and stir in 200 g of cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted and the soup has a creamy, velvety texture. You can adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Stir well and allow the soup to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Enjoy this creamy and satisfying soup!
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Potassium: 550 mg
- Vitamin A: 12% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 30% of daily value
- Calcium: 10% of daily value
Explanation of the Recipe: Why It’s Timeless
This Creamy Zucchini Soup is a timeless dish because it brings together simple, wholesome ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. The zucchini, a versatile vegetable, is a staple in many kitchens due to its mild flavor and nutritional benefits. When combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs, zucchini takes on a deep, savory character that is both comforting and refreshing.
The addition of cream cheese enhances the soup’s creamy texture, making it feel indulgent without being overly rich. The creaminess balances the natural lightness of the zucchini, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The recipe is adaptable—feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours. The simplicity and richness of this soup make it a perfect dish for any season, whether served on a chilly evening or a warm summer day.
Additionally, this recipe can be made quickly with ingredients that are easy to find year-round, making it a practical and delicious option for weeknight dinners. Its versatility and comforting qualities ensure that it remains a favorite in kitchens worldwide.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then gently reheat on the stove.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! This soup is a great base for adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or even spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time depending on the vegetables you add.
Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Zucchini Soup
- Use Fresh Zucchini: Fresh zucchini is the best choice for this soup. Choose zucchini that are firm, with no soft spots or blemishes.
- Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or dill to enhance the soup’s flavor profile.
- Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick after blending, simply add more hot water or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Smooth Soup: For an ultra-smooth soup, strain it through a fine mesh sieve after blending to remove any remaining bits of zucchini or onion.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, adding more water or broth if the soup thickens too much.
Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Conclusion
This Creamy Zucchini Soup is a comforting, healthy, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed throughout the year. With its smooth, creamy texture and the delicate flavors of zucchini, onions, and garlic, this soup is perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. Whether served on its own or as part of a larger meal, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Its simplicity and richness make it a timeless recipe that will continue to be loved for years to come.