Courgette Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever tasted a velvety, rich bowl of courgette (or zucchini, depending on where you’re from) soup, you know how it has the power to comfort and nourish at the same time. It’s one of those dishes that’s deceptively simple, yet it packs a punch in flavor. Courgettes are often overshadowed by other more popular vegetables, but when combined with the right ingredients, they become the star of the show.

This courgette soup recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to adjust according to your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a lighter lunch or a satisfying dinner, this soup can be your go-to. So, let’s break it down step by step, and I’ll guide you through a delightful and healthy way to prepare this dish.

The beauty of courgette soup lies in its simplicity. By letting the natural flavors of the courgettes shine, the dish remains fresh, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying. Below, I’ll provide you with everything you need to know to create the perfect bowl of courgette soup, with some helpful tips along the way.

Ingredients Needed

When it comes to making courgette soup, the ingredients are pretty straightforward, and you probably have most of them in your kitchen already. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Courgettes (Zucchini) – About 4 medium-sized courgettes are perfect for a thick and rich soup. They provide the bulk and base for your soup.
Onion – A small to medium onion adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to balance the mildness of the courgettes.
Garlic – A couple of cloves minced. Garlic gives the soup that savory undertone and aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish.
Vegetable Broth – This will provide the liquid base for your soup. You can use chicken broth if you prefer a non-vegetarian version.
Olive Oil or Butter – For sautéing the vegetables and adding a rich, silky texture.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; these help to bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
Herbs (Optional) – Fresh thyme, basil, or a bay leaf can give your soup extra fragrance and flavor. You can use dried herbs too if that’s what you have on hand.
Cream or Milk (Optional) – For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk.

Cooking Instructions

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these steps for a smooth, delicious courgette soup:

Prep The Vegetables
- Wash and trim the courgettes, then slice them into roughly 1-inch chunks. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin adds a nice texture and color to the soup.
- Chop your onion and garlic finely.
Sauté The Onion And Garlic
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Cook The Courgettes
- Add the chopped courgettes to the pot, stirring occasionally. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll want them to soften and start releasing their moisture.
Add The Broth
- Pour in about 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if you prefer). Stir the mixture to combine.
Season
- Add salt, pepper, and any herbs you are using (fresh thyme, a bay leaf, or dried basil are great choices).
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. The courgettes should be very soft by now.
Blend The Soup
- Remove the pot from the heat and take out any whole herbs (like bay leaves or thyme sprigs).
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Blend until the soup is completely smooth.
Finish The Soup
- Return the soup to the stove and heat through. If you want a creamier texture, now is the time to add in your cream or milk. Stir to combine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of cream, or a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s dive deeper into why each of these ingredients works so well together:

Courgettes: These mild, water-rich vegetables are naturally light in flavor, which makes them an ideal base for a creamy soup. They’re high in fiber, low in calories, and full of vitamins, especially vitamin C and vitamin A.
Onions: Onions add sweetness when sautéed, which balances the earthiness of the courgettes. They also bring a savory base to the soup, building flavor from the very start of cooking.
Garlic: Known for its distinct, savory profile, garlic is an aromatic ingredient that enhances the flavor of any dish. In this soup, garlic gives it a rich, deep flavor profile without overpowering the delicate taste of the courgettes.
Vegetable Broth: A flavorful broth helps tie the ingredients together. It imparts a savory depth and brings all the flavors into harmony. You can adjust the saltiness and richness by choosing the right broth (whether homemade or store-bought).
Olive Oil or Butter: These fats serve as the medium for cooking the onions and garlic, adding richness and flavor. Olive oil provides a fruity, slightly grassy flavor, while butter brings a soft, creamy richness.

Expert Tips

Here are a few expert tips to help you elevate your courgette soup:

Add a splash of white wine: Before adding the broth, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine. This adds complexity and acidity that can really brighten up the soup.
Fresh herbs over dried: Fresh thyme or basil not only adds a burst of flavor but also enhances the aroma of the soup. Fresh herbs bring a vibrancy that dried versions just can’t match.
For a smoother texture: For an ultra-smooth soup, use a fine mesh strainer after blending to strain out any remaining bits of courgette or onion. This will give your soup a velvety finish.
Don’t overcook: While it’s essential to cook the courgettes until they’re soft, be careful not to overcook them, as it could lead to a loss of their fresh flavor.
Serve with a garnish: A swirl of cream, some crispy croutons, or freshly grated Parmesan cheese can take your soup to the next level.

Recipe Variations

If you’re in the mood for experimenting, there are plenty of ways to adapt this courgette soup to suit your tastes:

Add potatoes: For a creamier texture, add a couple of medium potatoes, peeled and chopped, with the courgettes. The starch from the potatoes will thicken the soup and give it a velvety texture.
Spicy kick: For those who love heat, try adding a pinch of red chili flakes or a small diced fresh chili when you sauté the onions and garlic.
Protein boost: Add a cup of cooked beans, such as cannellini beans or chickpeas, to make the soup more filling and nutritious. You can also blend the beans for a heartier texture.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version that adds a subtle sweetness to the soup.

Final Words

This courgette soup is so much more than just a simple vegetable soup. It’s comforting, filling, and endlessly customizable to your liking. Whether you keep it basic or add a few personal touches, it’s guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, it’s the perfect way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a warm, delicious form.

Courgette Soup Recipe