Zucchini Basil Soup

Zucchini Basil Soup is a light, refreshing, and creamy soup that perfectly blends the mild flavor of zucchini with the fresh, aromatic taste of basil. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a healthy appetizer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a flavorful bowl of comfort that’s full of vegetables and bursting with fresh herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zucchini Basil Soup is the ultimate comforting yet healthy dish. The creamy texture of the soup, achieved without heavy cream, is thanks to the zucchini and other fresh ingredients, making it a lighter option for those looking for a nutritious meal. The fragrant basil enhances the fresh, vegetable-based flavors, while a hint of garlic and onion adds depth. Whether you’re looking for a quick, satisfying dinner or a healthy starter, this soup is perfect for all occasions and is easy to make in less than 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchinis, chopped

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

2. Cook the Zucchini: Add the chopped zucchini to the pot and sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini starts to soften.

3. Add the Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.

4. Blend the Soup: Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend for a shorter time.

5. Season and Add Basil: Stir in the chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want extra creaminess, stir in the Greek yogurt. For a bright finish, add a splash of lemon juice.

6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for later.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add creaminess: For a richer texture, replace the Greek yogurt with heavy cream, coconut milk, or cashew cream.

• Spicy version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring a little heat to the soup.

• Make it heartier: Add a cup of cooked quinoa, rice, or lentils to make the soup more filling and add some extra protein.

• Add cheese: Top the soup with grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta cheese for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Zucchini Basil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, or microwave in individual servings until heated through. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months—just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

FAQs

Can I use frozen zucchini for this soup?

Yes, you can use frozen zucchini, but fresh zucchini will provide a better texture. If using frozen zucchini, just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the pot.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Greek yogurt or replace it with a plant-based yogurt or coconut cream. Use vegetable broth as the base, and you’ll have a fully vegan soup.

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a handful of cooked potatoes or cauliflower before blending, or simmer the soup for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

Is this soup low-carb?

Yes, Zucchini Basil Soup is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

How do I adjust the flavor if the soup is too bland?

If the soup tastes a little bland, try adding more salt, pepper, or fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary. A splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil can also brighten the flavors.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for later use.

Conclusion

Zucchini Basil Soup is a fresh, flavorful, and healthy dish that is perfect for any time of year. With its creamy texture, fragrant basil, and simple ingredients, this soup is both satisfying and light. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight meal or prepping it ahead of time, it’s a delicious and versatile option that everyone will love. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this soup, and feel good about the wholesome ingredients that make it a healthy choice!

Print