Description
This Zucchini Soup is light, fresh, smooth, and creamy without dairy. Tender zucchini, onion, garlic, raw cashews, lemon juice, and fresh herbs create a bright, comforting soup that works well for an easy lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 medium zucchini, 1 1/2 to 2 pounds total, unpeeled, ends trimmed, halved lengthwise, and sliced
3 cups vegetable or chicken broth, plus more if needed for a thinner consistency
1/4 cup raw cashews
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs, such as dill, basil, or parsley, plus extra for garnish
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Then add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
2. Stir in the zucchini, broth, cashews, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until the zucchini is tender.
4. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped herbs.
5. Blend with an immersion blender until creamy and smooth. Alternatively, carefully blend the soup in batches in a high-powered blender for about 15 to 30 seconds per batch.
6. Divide the Zucchini Soup among bowls. If desired, finish each serving with a small drizzle of olive oil and extra fresh herbs.
Notes
A high-powered blender creates a somewhat smoother consistency than an immersion blender, although either method works well.
Raw cashews add creaminess and help thicken the soup without dairy.
If needed, omit the cashews and use about 1/4 slice of avocado as an alternative thickener.
Add extra broth after blending if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Dill, basil, parsley, or another preferred fresh herb works well.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating and stir well before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 to 2 cups
- Calories: 167
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 1461 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 5 g
