Zucchini soup with ham

Zucchini soup with ham: A delicious choice for cool days

When it comes to comforting dishes, zucchini soup with ham is definitely one of those recipes that makes us feel at home. With a perfect blend of fresh vegetables and rich flavors, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with essential nutrients. Let's embark on this delicious recipe together, step by step, and discover how we can transform simple ingredients into a comforting meal!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 3 medium zucchinis, well washed
- 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 100 g ham, diced
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional but recommended)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or other vegetable oil
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1 liter of water

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the zucchinis well, then cut them into cubes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking. The leek slices should be thin so they soften easily during cooking. Meanwhile, dice the ham into small cubes to integrate perfectly into the soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and place it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the zucchinis, potatoes, and leek. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become slightly soft and the flavors begin to reveal themselves. This step is essential as it will enhance the soup's flavor.

3. Adding the ham: After the vegetables have softened, add the diced ham. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the ham is slightly browned, releasing its delicious aromas.

4. Deglazing with wine: Now it's time to add the white wine. This will release the flavors from the pot. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates, leaving only the aroma. If you prefer a non-alcoholic soup, you can skip this step.

5. Boiling the soup: Add 1 liter of water to the pot, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This time allows the vegetables to soften completely and the flavors to develop.

6. Finishing the soup: After 20 minutes, the soup is ready. If you desire a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunky soup, you can leave it as is, but make sure all ingredients are well cooked.

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, perhaps with croutons or a slice of toasted bread on the side. You can garnish it with a few fresh parsley leaves or a spoonful of sour cream for added creaminess.

Useful tips

- Combining ingredients: If you want to add other vegetables, carrots or celery are excellent options. You can experiment with different types of ham or even bacon for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham and use additional vegetables, such as celery or carrots, and add spices like paprika or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
- Storage: The soup can be kept in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor will intensify as it cools. You can freeze it, but make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezing containers.

Nutritional benefits

This zucchini soup with ham is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Zucchinis are low in calories, making this recipe an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, the ham adds a good amount of protein, providing an energy boost.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen zucchinis? Yes, you can use frozen zucchinis, but the taste will be slightly different, and the texture may be softer.
- What can I do if I don’t have white wine? You can use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
- Can I make the soup spicier? Yes, you can add a hot pepper or chili flakes to give it a bit of heat.

Combining with other recipes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a cheese tart. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing drink, such as a fruit smoothie or a warm herbal tea, for a perfect meal.

In conclusion, zucchini soup with ham is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe, perfect for cool days. Whether you choose to prepare it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it will surely be appreciated. I wish you much success in the kitchen and bon appétit!