Zucchini Soup with Basil Recipe ๐ฅฃ
Overview:
This delightful Zucchini Soup with Basil recipe is a perfect choice for a light lunch or snack, especially on a cozy weeknight. With its vibrant green color and refreshing flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at your table. Plus, it’s easy to make and budget-friendly, making it a go-to option for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 onions, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 sprigs of thyme
- 8 medium zucchinis, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken stock
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the Croutons: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. |
| Stir in the chopped basil, then add the bread cubes and toss to coat. | |
| Season the cubes with salt and pepper. | |
| Cook, stirring for 3 minutes or until the bread cubes start to get lightly toasted and crispy, then transfer to a plate. | |
| 2 | Prepare the Soup: In a large heavy saucepan, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. |
| Add the celery, onion, bay leaf, and thyme. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft, about 20 minutes. | |
| Increase the heat to medium. Stir in the sliced zucchini and stock. | |
| Season with salt and pepper. Simmer until the zucchini is soft, about 10 minutes. | |
| Discard the bay leaf. | |
| 3 | Blend the Soup: Using a blender, puree the soup in batches until smooth. |
| Return the soup to the saucepan and heat until warmed through. | |
| Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. | |
| 4 | Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with the prepared croutons and fresh basil leaves. |
| Enjoy this delicious Zucchini Soup with Basil hot and fresh! |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 103.3
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2.2g
- Cholesterol: 10.3mg
- Sodium: 226.8mg
- Carbohydrates: 11.8g
- Fiber: 0.7g
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Protein: 3.9g
Recipe Notes:
- For added flavor, consider garnishing each bowl of soup with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other herbs or vegetables such as spinach, parsley, or potatoes.
- To make this soup vegan, simply substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
Keywords:
Vegetable, Low Cholesterol, Weeknight, St. Patrick’s Day, Stove Top, Small Appliance, < 4 Hours, Easy, Inexpensive
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a satisfying meal.
- Serve it as an appetizer at your next dinner party or family gathering for a fresh and flavorful start to the meal.
Conclusion:
With its simple preparation and delicious taste, this Zucchini Soup with Basil recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, it’s a versatile dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!
