### Zucchini Soup: An Enjoyable and Wholesome Recipe
Zucchini soup is an adaptable and tasty dish that can be savored throughout the year. This rich soup not only provides comfort but is also loaded with nutrients, making it an excellent enhancement to any meal. Below is a thorough recipe that emphasizes the essential ingredients and steps to prepare a delightful zucchini soup.
#### Ingredients
– **2 tbsp olive oil**: Utilized for sautéing the vegetables, imparting a deep flavor.
– **1 yellow onion**: Offers a sweet and aromatic foundation for the soup.
– **1 celery stalk**: Contributes depth and a minor crunch to the texture.
– **1-2 cloves garlic**: Enriches the soup with a strong flavor.
– **1 large or 2 smaller zucchini (courgette)**: The main ingredient, providing a subtle flavor and creamy consistency when pureed.
– **A generous handful of fresh spinach**: Boosts the nutritional value and introduces lively color.
– **120 ml (1/2 cup) white wine**: Brings acidity and complexity to the taste.
– **500 ml (2 cups) vegetable stock**: Acts as the base liquid, enhancing the soup with savory hints.
– **120 ml (1/2 cup) cream or coconut cream**: Adds richness, giving the soup a smooth texture.
– **A handful of fresh herbs (dill and mint suggested, but basil works well too)**: Contributes freshness and aromatic elements.
– **1 lemon**: The juice elevates the flavors and balances the creaminess.
– **Salt & black pepper**: Crucial for flavoring.
#### Toppings
– **1 cup cooked quinoa**: Infuses protein and a nutty essence.
– **Sour cream or smetana**: A creamy finishing touch that pairs well with the soup.
– **Dill**: Fresh dill enhances the herbal undertones of the soup.
– **Red onion or chives, finely chopped**: Adds a crunchy element and a gentle onion taste.
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Begin by dicing the yellow onion, celery, and garlic. Cut the zucchini into small pieces.
2. **Sauté the Base**: In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, cooking until they become soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and sauté for another minute until aromatic.
3. **Add Zucchini and Spinach**: Mix in the chopped zucchini and fresh spinach to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the zucchini starts to soften.
4. **Deglaze with Wine**: Add the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to free any tasty bits. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the wine reduces slightly.
5. **Add Stock and Simmer**: Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the combination to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender.
6. **Blend the Soup**: Utilizing an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches. Place the blended soup back into the pot.
7. **Stir in Cream and Season**: Introduce the cream (or coconut cream) and mix well. Season with salt, black pepper, and the juice of one lemon. Adjust the seasoning as desired.
8. **Serve and Garnish**: Pour the soup into bowls and top with cooked quinoa, a spoonful of sour cream or smetana, fresh dill, and chopped red onion or chives.
#### Conclusion
Zucchini soup is a charming dish that highlights the tastes of fresh vegetables and herbs. Its creamy consistency and vibrant flavor make it an ideal starter or a light meal. With the possibility to customize toppings, this soup can accommodate various dietary preferences. Relish this wholesome and fulfilling dish anytime throughout the year!