Soupe de purée de courgettes

Soupe de purée de courgettes is a light, creamy, and flavorful zucchini soup that's perfect for any time of the year. It's simple to prepare and can be served hot or cold. Here's a recipe to make this delightful soup:

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium-sized zucchinis (courgettes), chopped
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and chopped (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • 750 ml (about 3 cups) of vegetable or chicken broth
  • 100 ml (about 1/2 cup) of heavy cream or crème fraîche
  • A handful of fresh herbs (such as parsley, basil, or thyme), chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for added flavor

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:

    • Wash and chop the zucchinis into small pieces. If using a potato, peel and chop it as well.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:

    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Cook the Vegetables:

    • Add the chopped zucchini (and potato, if using) to the pot.
    • Stir to combine with the onions and garlic, and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the zucchini to soften slightly.
  4. Add the Broth:

    • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, enough to cover the vegetables.
    • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini (and potato) are fully cooked and tender.
  5. Blend the Soup:

    • Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from heat.
    • Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
    • If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Finish the Soup:

    • Return the pot to low heat, and stir in the heavy cream or crème fraîche.
    • Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
    • Cook for a few more minutes to heat through, but avoid boiling.
  7. Serve:

    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs.
    • Serve hot, or chill in the refrigerator if you prefer to serve it cold.

Enjoy your delicious soupe de purée de courgettes!