Virginia'S Zucchini Soup *
A creamy, flavorful zucchini soup with fresh basil and smooth texture, perfect for a light lunch or starter, suitable for all seasons and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions in butter or oil until translucent.
- Add sliced zucchini, basil, and vegetable or chicken broth to the pot.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Remove from heat and blend in a blender until smooth.
- Stir in skim milk or cream and season to taste.
- Serve hot or cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley along with the basil. If you prefer a richer taste, substitute half of the skim milk with cream. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg for depth. If you're short on time, you can use pre-sliced zucchini from the store to speed up the prep process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this zucchini soup hot or cold, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with a crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a refreshing side, consider serving it alongside Frosted Fruit Salad Mold for a perfect summer lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia'S Zucchini Soup * contains roughly 370 calories, with 12g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (185% of the Daily Value), iron (91% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I enhance the soup's flavor?
Enhance the flavor by adding garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can also incorporate other vegetables like carrots or celery during the sautéing phase. This will create a more complex flavor profile and make it even more delicious.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).