Creamy Zucchini Soup with Leeks and Fresh Cream

Creamy Zucchini Soup (Vellutata di Zucchine)
Category: Soups & Starters
Servings: 4

This creamy zucchini soup, also known as Vellutata di Zucchine, is the perfect dish to enjoy as a starter or a light meal. The combination of tender zucchini, delicate leeks, and a creamy finish makes it both comforting and healthy. The use of vegetable broth and fresh cream ensures a velvety texture that will warm you from the inside out. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delightful recipe step-by-step.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the leeks: Start by trimming the ends of the leeks, keeping only the tender central part. Peel away the first layer, and slice the leeks finely.

2. Prepare the zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly, remove the ends, and cut them into thin rounds. This will ensure they cook evenly.

3. Sauté the leeks: Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced leeks and sauté them for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.

4. Cook the zucchini: Add the zucchini slices to the saucepan with the leeks. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together and let it cook on high heat for about 5-6 minutes. This step helps to slightly caramelize the zucchini, enhancing its flavor.

5. Add the broth: Pour the vegetable broth into the saucepan, ensuring that the vegetables are well-covered. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini and leeks are tender.

6. Blend the soup: Once the vegetables are soft, use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot. Blend until smooth and creamy. For an even finer texture, you can pass the soup through a fine mesh strainer to remove any remaining bits and achieve a silky consistency.

7. Add the cream: Stir in the fresh liquid cream and let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

8. Finish and serve: Once the soup has thickened slightly and is ready to serve, ladle it into bowls. For a fresh, aromatic touch, garnish with a few sprigs of thyme. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, velvety texture of your Vellutata di Zucchine.

This simple yet luxurious zucchini soup is a perfect way to highlight the flavors of fresh vegetables while keeping the dish light and satisfying. Ideal for any occasion, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or can be enjoyed on its own as a comforting bowl of goodness.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a comforting lunch, or a light appetizer, this zucchini soup brings simplicity and elegance to your table. Enjoy it as part of a healthy meal or serve it alongside a fresh salad or sandwich for a full meal.