Zucchini soup

Zucchini Soup - A Refreshing Delicacy

Zucchini soup is a traditional dish, appreciated for its fresh flavor and light texture. This recipe is perfect for hot days or for moments when you want to enjoy a healthy and comforting meal. With simple ingredients and an accessible cooking process, I invite you to discover this delicious recipe, which can quickly become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 2 large onions
- 2 carrots
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 100 g of rice
- 1 liter of borscht (or to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley, lovage, dill) – to your choice

Preparing the zucchini soup will take you on a culinary journey full of flavors. We start with the essential steps that will help you achieve a perfect result.

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling the onions and carrots. Chop the onion finely and slice the carrots into thin rounds. These vegetables will form the flavorful base of the soup.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
In a large pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt, then bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the chopped onion and carrots. Let them boil for about 5-7 minutes, until they become slightly soft. This step will allow the flavors to concentrate and blend.

Step 3: Preparing the zucchinis
Meanwhile, take the zucchinis, peel them, and cut them lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the core, leaving a thin edge. Cut the zucchinis into long strips and then into cubes. Add the chopped zucchinis to the pot with onion and carrot. This ingredient is full of essential vitamins and minerals, giving the soup a fine texture and pleasant taste.

Step 4: Adding the rice
After about 10 minutes of boiling the vegetables, add the washed rice. Make sure it is well cleaned to avoid any impurities. Let the rice boil together with the vegetables, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Tomatoes and tomato paste
When the rice is almost cooked (after about 15 minutes), add the diced tomatoes and the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. The tomatoes bring a touch of acidity and vibrant color to the soup, while the tomato paste intensifies the flavor. Let the soup boil for another 5-10 minutes, until all the ingredients are well cooked.

Step 6: Final assembly
Before finishing the soup, add the borscht (to taste) to achieve that specific sour flavor. Let the soup boil for a few more minutes, and at the end, add the chopped fresh herbs. This will add an extra flavor and an attractive appearance.

Serving:
Zucchini soup can be served hot, but it is also delicious cold, straight from the fridge, as you prefer. You can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons for an extra texture. Additionally, a spoonful of sour cream on top can transform this soup into an even creamier dish.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a more intense flavor, try sautéing the onion and carrots in a little oil before adding the water.
- Parsley, lovage, and dill can be added finely chopped at the end to keep the fresh flavors.
- This recipe can be easily adapted: add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or squash, to vary the taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Zucchini soup is an excellent choice for a light meal, being low in calories. Zucchinis are rich in water, vitamins (such as A and C), and minerals, while the rice adds complex carbohydrates necessary for energy. This recipe is ideal for anyone who wants to eat healthily without giving up flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen zucchinis for this recipe?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.

2. How long can I keep zucchini soup in the fridge?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a little chili or ground black pepper for a spicier taste.

Possible variations:
- Add a cup of peas or green beans for an extra nutrient boost.
- Replace the rice with quinoa for a gluten-free option, but still high in protein.

This zucchini soup is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe that can be customized to everyone's tastes. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, it will surely bring a touch of joy and health to every bowl. Enjoy the preparation and don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones!