Creamy Zucchini Soup with Feta and Basil is a vibrant, hearty dish that perfectly showcases the flavors of fresh summer produce. With its velvety texture, fragrant herbs, and tangy feta, this soup is an ideal choice for both casual family dinners and elegant gatherings. It’s a simple yet sophisticated recipe that transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
Soups have long held a special place in global cuisines, celebrated for their versatility, nourishing qualities, and ability to bring people together. This recipe takes inspiration from Mediterranean flavors, where fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil are central to the cuisine. The result is a dish that’s not only delicious but also deeply satisfying.
Whether served as a comforting starter or a light main course, this creamy zucchini soup is timeless in its appeal. Its vibrant green hue and delicate flavors make it a feast for the senses, while its simple preparation ensures it’s accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Fresh zucchini – 700 g
- Leek – 225 g
- Celery stalks – 170 g
- Feta cheese – 100 g
- Fresh basil leaves – 55 g
- Garlic – 3 cloves
- Olive oil – 4-5 tablespoons
- Water – 1.2 liters
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per Serving: 190 kcal
Steps to Prepare
1. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim the ends. Cut the zucchini into small cubes for faster cooking.
- Clean the leek by removing the tough green leaves and slicing the white and light green parts into thin rings. Rinse under running water to remove any dirt or sand.
- Chop the celery stalks into small pieces.
- Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the leek and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and slightly translucent.
3. Cook the Zucchini
- Add the cubed zucchini to the pot and stir well to coat with the oil and aromatics.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
4. Blend the Soup
- Remove the pot from the heat and allow the soup to cool slightly.
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until silky.
5. Add the Feta and Basil
- Return the soup to low heat. Stir in the fresh basil leaves and crumble in the feta cheese, reserving some for garnish.
- Allow the soup to warm through for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently to melt the feta slightly into the soup. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a crumble of feta, and a few fresh basil leaves.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side of toasted garlic croutons for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
Creamy Zucchini Soup with Feta and Basil is a dish that embodies timeless culinary values: simplicity, seasonality, and balance. By using fresh zucchini, fragrant basil, and tangy feta, this soup delivers a vibrant flavor profile that feels both refreshing and comforting.
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that thrives in warm weather, making it an ideal ingredient for summer recipes. The addition of leeks and celery enhances the soup’s depth, while garlic and olive oil provide aromatic richness. The feta cheese adds a tangy creaminess that elevates the dish, and the basil brings a fresh, herbaceous note that ties everything together.
The versatility of this soup makes it a classic. It can be served warm for a cozy meal or chilled as a refreshing starter on a hot day. Its elegant presentation and balanced flavors ensure it appeals to a wide audience, from casual diners to discerning food enthusiasts.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 190 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
FAQs
1. Can I use yellow zucchini instead of green zucchini?
Yes, yellow zucchini works perfectly in this recipe and adds a slightly sweeter flavor.
2. Can I substitute feta cheese?
If you don’t have feta, you can use goat cheese or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made up to two days in advance and reheated gently on the stove. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze the blended soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. However, add the basil and feta after reheating for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh zucchini, basil, and high-quality feta make all the difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Simmer the zucchini until just tender to preserve its fresh taste.
- Adjust the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a splash of water or stock to achieve your desired consistency.
- Blend Thoroughly: For a smooth texture, blend the soup until completely creamy.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Creamy Zucchini Soup with Feta and Basil is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients and the joy of simple cooking. This dish highlights the best of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, combining the mild sweetness of zucchini with the tangy richness of feta and the aromatic freshness of basil.
Its timeless appeal lies in its versatility and accessibility. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or hosting an elegant dinner party, this soup is a reliable choice that always impresses. Its creamy texture and balanced flavors create a sense of comfort and indulgence, while its vibrant color and garnish make it visually stunning.
This recipe is a testament to the beauty of seasonal cooking, showcasing how a handful of humble ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. By mastering this soup, you’re embracing a tradition of simple yet sophisticated cuisine that’s sure to delight friends and family for years to come.
So gather your ingredients, grab your blender, and let this timeless recipe transport you to the sunny fields of the Mediterranean. With its irresistible flavor and elegant simplicity, Creamy Zucchini Soup with Feta and Basil is a dish you’ll return to time and time again.