Creamy Zucchini Basil Soup
Hey there, friend! Let me introduce you to my Creamy Zucchini Basil Soup—a velvety, dreamy bowl of comfort that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying, this soup is packed with fresh zucchini, fragrant basil, and a touch of creaminess that’ll make you swoon.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but is secretly a breeze to whip up.
Whether you’re a soup lover or just looking for a way to use up that zucchini from your garden, this one’s for you.
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a bit of olive oil in a large pot. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, and let them sizzle until they’re soft and fragrant. This is where the flavor foundation begins, so take a moment to enjoy that heavenly aroma!
2. Cook the Zucchini
Add the diced zucchini to the pot and let it cook down until it’s tender and slightly golden. This step is key to building depth of flavor, so don’t rush it. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
3. Simmer with Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Let the zucchini soak up all that savory goodness for about 10 minutes. This is also the perfect time to toss in a handful of fresh basil leaves—they’ll infuse the soup with their bright, herby flavor.
4. Blend Until Smooth
Once the zucchini is soft and the flavors have melded, it’s time to blend! Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a countertop blender and puree until it’s silky smooth. If you like a bit of texture, you can leave it slightly chunky.
5. Add the Creamy Finish
Stir in a splash of heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer) to give the soup its luxurious, velvety texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and give it one final stir.
6. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh basil, and maybe even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad, and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Boost the Flavor: Roast the zucchini in the oven before adding it to the soup for an extra layer of caramelized sweetness.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version.
- Add Protein: Stir in a can of white beans or top with grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- Freeze It Right: This soup freezes beautifully! Just leave out the cream until you’re ready to reheat and serve.
Storage
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze without the cream for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.
Creamy Zucchini Basil Soup
Description
This Creamy Zucchini Basil Soup is a quick, flavorful dish that combines tender zucchini, fresh basil, and a touch of cream for a velvety texture. Perfect for a light lunch or cozy dinner!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add diced zucchini and cook until tender and slightly golden, about 8-10 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Add basil leaves and let cook for 10 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer to a countertop blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, fresh basil, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 120kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 9g14%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For a chunkier soup, blend only half of the mixture.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, tangy twist.
- This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
