Ingredients

For the Soup:

• Zucchini: 2.25 lbs (about 4 medium), chopped
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced
• Sliced Almonds: 1/3 cup
• Crème Fraîche: 1-2 Tbsp (optional for creaminess)
• Chicken Bone Broth or Vegetable Stock: 4 cups
• Sea Salt: to taste
• Pepper: to taste
• Olive Oil: for cooking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the Zucchini: Wash and chop the zucchini into small pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. Mince the Garlic: Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely.

Step 2: Sauté the Almonds

1. Toast the Almonds: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast them for 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
2. Remove and Set Aside: Once toasted, remove the almonds from the pot and set them aside. They will be used for garnishing the soup.

Step 3: Cook the Zucchini

1. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pot, add another drizzle of olive oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Zucchini: Add the chopped zucchini to the pot and stir well. Sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing the zucchini to soften slightly.

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasoning

1. Pour in the Broth: Add the chicken bone broth or vegetable stock to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
2. Season: Season with sea salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

1. Blend Until Smooth: Remove the pot from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Be cautious with hot liquids!
2. Add Crème Fraîche: Stir in the crème fraîche for an extra creamy texture, blending it until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Serve the Soup

1. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
2. Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the toasted almonds. Drizzle a bit of olive oil for added flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Zucchini: Select firm, fresh zucchini without blemishes for the best flavor.
• Blending Options: For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
• Make it Dairy-Free: To keep the soup dairy-free, omit the crème fraîche and consider adding coconut cream for richness.
• Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper while cooking.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 300mg

FAQs

1. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes! You can substitute toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or pecans for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables such as spinach, leeks, or green peas for added nutrition and flavor.

3. What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a sandwich for a light meal.

4. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Make a large batch at the beginning of the week for quick lunches or dinners.

5. How can I make it vegan?
Simply replace the chicken bone broth with vegetable stock and omit the crème fraîche, or use a plant-based alternative.

Conclusion

This Creamy Zucchini Soup with Almonds is a delightful and nutritious dish that highlights the fresh flavors of zucchini and garlic. Easy to make and rich in flavor, it’s an ideal meal for any time of year. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, this soup is sure to impress with its creamy texture and nutty almond crunch. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of comfort today!