Cucuzza Soup Recipe

Cucuzza soup might not be the first dish that comes to mind when thinking of hearty, flavorful meals, but once you’ve tasted it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. This dish is a beautiful representation of Italian-American comfort food, and it has the kind of heartiness that can feed a crowd while still being incredibly nourishing and wholesome.

Cucuzza, also known as Italian squash or zucchetta, is a type of summer squash that’s a little milder and less watery than regular zucchini. Its tender flesh and delicate skin lend themselves perfectly to a soup base. When cooked, cucuzza takes on a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and when paired with a flavorful broth, vegetables, and spices, it transforms into something truly magical.

This soup is a blend of simplicity and rustic comfort, making it the perfect dish to enjoy during colder months, although it can easily be a delightful summer soup when cucuzza is in season. Let’s dive into the recipe and all its wonderful components!

This Cucuzza Soup is incredibly versatile, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. The heart of this recipe is the cucuzza squash, which brings its unique flavor to the soup, while the rest of the ingredients harmonize beautifully. Here’s everything you need to know:

Ingredients Needed

To make a truly delicious cucuzza soup, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together perfectly. Some may be pantry staples, while others are fresh ingredients that really elevate the dish.

Cucuzza Squash (Italian Squash): The star of the show, this squash has a mild flavor and a soft texture once cooked. Aim for about 2-3 medium-sized squashes, peeled and diced.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables, you want good-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich flavor.
Onion: A medium yellow onion, finely chopped. This adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced or finely chopped. Garlic brings aromatic warmth to the dish.
Carrots: Diced or sliced, they add color and a natural sweetness to balance the flavors.
Celery: Chopped celery adds freshness and a bit of a crisp texture to the soup.
Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes, chopped. Tomatoes contribute a rich, slightly acidic taste that complements the mild squash.
Broth: Vegetable broth is often used for a lighter version, but you can use chicken broth if you prefer a heartier flavor.
Bay Leaves: Just one or two; they infuse the soup with a subtle, earthy flavor.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, to taste.
Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish and added fragrance at the end.

Cooking Instructions

The beauty of this soup lies in how easily it comes together, and the instructions are simple yet rewarding. Here’s how you’ll prepare it:

Prepare the Vegetables: Start by peeling and dicing the cucuzza squash. Set it aside. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, chop them as well.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute or until fragrant.
Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned) and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to break down.
Add the Squash and Broth: Add the diced cucuzza squash to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Season: Drop in the bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well, ensuring everything is evenly distributed. Let the soup simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Final Touches: Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley.

Ingredient Insights

Cucuzza Squash: Cucuzza is a long, green, cylindrical squash that has a taste and texture similar to zucchini, though it’s less watery and more tender when cooked. Its versatility makes it perfect for soups and stews.
Tomatoes: The acidity of tomatoes provides a nice contrast to the mild cucuzza. Fresh tomatoes will give the soup a lighter, brighter flavor, while canned tomatoes will give a deeper, richer base.
Herbs: The use of fresh basil or parsley not only brings color but enhances the aroma, making each bowl feel like a comforting embrace. These herbs are classic in Italian cooking and add a refreshing, herbal note.

Expert Tips

Choosing the Right Cucuzza: Look for cucuzza squash that is firm, with smooth skin. Avoid ones that are overly large or have soft spots. Smaller cucuzza squash tend to have a better flavor and texture.
Using a Slow Cooker: If you’re not in a rush, you can prepare the soup in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the vegetables, add them to the slow cooker with the broth, and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. It will deepen the flavor even further.
For Extra Depth of Flavor: Consider adding a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers. This will give the broth an incredibly rich, umami-packed depth.
Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the garlic. It will elevate the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
Finish with a Drizzle of Olive Oil: For an added richness, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top just before serving. This will enhance the flavor and give it a silky finish.

Recipe Variations

As with most soups, this cucuzza soup recipe is highly customizable to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might consider:

Add Meat: For a more filling meal, you can add crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef to the soup. Simply brown the meat before adding the vegetables to the pot for extra flavor.
Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip any animal-based toppings, like cheese or sausage. The soup will still be hearty and satisfying.
Grains and Legumes: You can bulk up the soup by adding some cooked pasta, rice, or beans. Cannellini beans or lentils work wonderfully in this soup, adding texture and extra protein.
Creamy Version: If you prefer a creamier soup, blend the soup partially or entirely once the cucuzza is tender. You can also stir in some coconut milk or heavy cream for added richness.

Final Words

Cucuzza soup is a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. The natural flavors of the cucuzza squash paired with the savory broth and aromatic herbs create a nourishing bowl of comfort.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with variations, this soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and oh-so-delicious. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to make a batch of this heartwarming soup that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Cucuzza Soup Recipe