Broccoli and zucchini are two versatile and nutritious vegetables that can be combined to create a delicious and creamy soup. This broccoli zucchini soup recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and healthy ingredients.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a filling dinner, this soup is the perfect choice. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delightful soup, providing tips and variations along the way.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make this broccoli zucchini soup:
- 1 lb / 500g zucchini, cut into chunks
- 2 broccoli heads
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 cups / 950 ml / 32 fl oz vegetable broth
- 1 tsp salt (or more to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Broccoli zucchini soup recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by rinsing the broccoli and zucchini under cold water. Cut the zucchini into cubes and set aside. Peel and chop the shallots and garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped shallots and minced garlic to the pot and cook until they become soft and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Add the broccoli, zucchini, and a little bit of mint and dill to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to enhance their flavors and ensure they are cooked evenly.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the vegetables become tender.
Step 5: Puree the Soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to puree the soup. You can use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Season to Taste
After blending, stir in half of the milk and bring the soup to a boil again. This step will help to incorporate the milk and create a creamy texture. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preferences.
Step 7: Prepare the Frothy Milk
In a separate small pot, heat the remaining milk until it becomes hot but not boiling. Using a whisk or a milk frother, whip the milk to create a frothy texture. This will add a delightful touch to the soup when serving.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the frothy milk, dill, and mint. For an extra crunch and flavor, serve the soup with homemade croutons. To make the croutons, simply cut bread into cubes and fry them in a pan with butter until they become golden and crispy.
Tips for Success
- When selecting zucchini, opt for small to medium-size ones as they tend to have a more tender texture and fewer seeds.
- To achieve a chunky texture, blend only half of the soup and combine it with the unblended portion.
- If you plan to reheat the soup later, add a splash of broth, milk, or cream to loosen it up as it may thicken in the refrigerator.
- Customize the soup by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Variations
This broccoli zucchini soup recipe is highly customizable. Here are some variations you can try:
- Extra Veggies: Add your favorite vegetables to the soup. Chopped bell peppers, sliced carrots, potatoes, or celery would make great additions.
- Herb Swap: Instead of parsley, try using basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
- Creamy Twist: Drizzle coconut cream, heavy cream, or olive oil over the soup to add richness. A dollop of sour cream or grated parmesan cheese can also enhance the creaminess.
- Protein Boost: While the soup is vegan, you can top it with your choice of protein, such as grilled shrimp, shredded chicken, or crisp bacon bits.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy broccoli zucchini soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with grilled toast, crackers, breadsticks, or crostini for added texture and crunch. Mayo garlic bread or hamburger bun garlic bread also make excellent accompaniments to this soup.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, you can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Before reheating, give it a good stir as some separation may occur. To reheat, you can use the stovetop or the microwave. Heat it gently, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through.
If you want to freeze the soup for later, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Consider using silicone souper cubes for easy portioning and reheating.
Make-Ahead Option
This broccoli zucchini soup is an excellent make-ahead meal. You can prepare it on a Sunday afternoon and enjoy it for lunch throughout the week. To save even more time, you can prep the vegetables a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook the soup.
