Cream of zucchini soup

Creamy Zucchini Soup: A Warm Embrace in a Bowl

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the delicious world of creamy soups! Today, I invite you to discover my favorite recipe for Creamy Zucchini Soup, which is not only incredibly simple but also full of flavor and nutrients. This soup is the perfect base for a light dinner or a healthy lunch and can be adapted based on the ingredients you have on hand.

A bit of history: Creamy soups have been cherished in various corners of the world, regarded as comforting dishes that bring warmth and familiarity on colder days. Zucchini, the stars of this recipe, are known for their smooth texture and delicate taste, as well as their significant nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamins and antioxidants.

Ingredients:
- 500 g zucchini (choose young and charmingly green zucchinis)
- 1 large onion (for a deep flavor)
- 1 potato (for consistency)
- 1 parsnip (an often underestimated ingredient, but full of flavor)
- 1 small carrot (for a hint of sweetness)
- a few sprigs of fresh parsley (for garnish)
- 200 ml milk (for perfect creaminess)
- 50 ml cream (you can opt for light cream if you prefer)
- 1 raw egg yolk (for an added richness)
- 1 vegetable stock cube (or chicken, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the flavors)
- 1-2 tablespoons oil (olive oil is ideal)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for a splash of color and flavor)

For croutons:
- 4-5 slices of bread (preferably whole grain for added nutrients)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, if you prefer)
- spices (basil, oregano, or whatever you like)

Steps to achieve the perfect soup:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the zucchini, onion, potato, parsnip, and carrot. Cut them into larger pieces – don’t worry about symmetry, as they will be blended later.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add 3 liters of water and a little salt, then add the chopped vegetables. Let them boil over medium heat for about 30 minutes. Check the consistency from time to time – the vegetables should be soft but not completely broken down.

3. Seasoning: Once the vegetables are boiled, add salt, pepper, the vegetable stock cube, and olive oil. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Blending: Let the soup cool slightly to avoid accidents with the blender. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until it becomes a smooth cream. If you want an even finer soup, you can strain it through a sieve.

5. Adding the milk: Meanwhile, bring the milk to a boil. Gradually add it to the soup, stirring constantly. Then, in the bowl where you will serve the soup, place the cream and the egg yolk. Pour the warm soup over these and gently stir to combine the ingredients well.

6. Preparing the croutons: Cut the slices of bread into cubes and place them in a non-stick pan. Add the olive oil and sauté them over medium heat, stirring gently until they turn golden and crispy. You can add your favorite spices to give them an extra flavor.

7. Serving: Pour the soup into bowls, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley leaves, and a dash of paprika for a splash of color. Add the crispy croutons on top and enjoy every bite!

Useful tips:
- Zucchini can be replaced with other vegetables, such as carrot or sweet potato, to vary the recipe.
- The soup can be prepared in advance and kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can easily reheat it on the stove.
- If you want a spicier soup, add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes.
- You can try adding feta cheese or parmesan on top before serving.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Zucchini is low in calories but high in fiber, making it ideal for a healthy diet. The milk and cream add a touch of creaminess, while the egg yolk contributes valuable proteins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen zucchini?
- Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but it's best to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup healthier?
- You can reduce the amount of cream or replace it with Greek yogurt to keep a low-fat level.

3. What can I serve alongside this soup?
- This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a savory tart, and a glass of white wine can perfectly complement the meal.

Last but not least, don’t forget to experiment! Every dish is an opportunity to add a personal touch. Enjoy cooking!