Courgette Soup Recipes: From Simple to Sophisticated

Courgette soup, also known as zucchini soup, is a versatile and delicious dish perfect for any season. Its mild flavor lends itself to a wide array of additions, making it endlessly customizable. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will provide you with several courgette soup recipes, catering to different tastes and skill levels.

Simple & Speedy Courgette Soup

This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight meal. It requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, yet delivers a satisfying and flavorful soup.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), roughly chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add chopped courgettes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until courgettes are tender.
4. Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve warm.

Creamy Courgette & Coconut Soup (Vegan)

This vegan recipe offers a creamy texture and a subtly sweet flavor profile thanks to the addition of coconut milk.

Ingredients:

• 2 large courgettes (zucchini), roughly chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon curry powder (optional)
• Juice of ½ lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Toasted coconut flakes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic and curry powder (if using) and cook for another minute.
3. Add chopped courgettes, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until courgettes are tender.
4. Blend the soup until smooth using a blender or immersion blender.
5. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with toasted coconut flakes, if desired, and serve warm.

Roasted Courgette & Tomato Soup

Roasting the vegetables before blending adds depth of flavor and a richer texture to this soup.

Ingredients:

• 2 large courgettes (zucchini), chopped
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes
• 1 red onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Crusty bread for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss courgettes, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Transfer roasted vegetables to a large pot. Add vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Blend the soup until smooth. Stir in fresh basil leaves.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm with crusty bread.

Tips for the Perfect Courgette Soup:

• Don't overcook the courgettes: Overcooked courgettes can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm vegetables.
• Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations.
• Add creaminess: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a dollop of cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt before serving.
• Make it ahead: Courgette soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

By experimenting with these recipes and incorporating your own personal touches, you can create a delicious and satisfying courgette soup that will impress your friends and family. Remember to adjust the recipes to your liking and enjoy the process!