Ina Garten’s Zucchini Basil Soup is a delightful combination of simplicity and elegance. This soup is perfect for those who crave something light yet full of flavor, bringing the freshness of zucchini and the aromatic essence of basil to your table in a warm, comforting bowl. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a starter for a special dinner, this recipe is a must-try.

What is Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup?

Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup is a creamy, herbaceous soup made with fresh zucchini, aromatic onions, and basil leaves. Known for its silky texture and vibrant flavor, this soup balances the earthy tones of zucchini with the freshness of basil. It’s a versatile recipe that works well as an appetizer or a wholesome meal paired with some crusty bread.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

Fresh and Healthy Ingredients: This soup is packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs.
Easy to Prepare: You only need a handful of ingredients and less than an hour to make it.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors, thickness, or toppings to suit your preferences.
Light yet Satisfying: Its creamy texture makes it feel indulgent while remaining light and refreshing.
Versatile Pairing Options: It pairs wonderfully with salads, bread, or proteins like grilled chicken.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 pounds zucchini, sliced thin
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
4 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot, add onions, and cook until soft. Add garlic and stir for a minute.
Cook the zucchini: Add zucchini slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook until softened.
Simmer the soup: Pour in stock, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer until the zucchini is tender.
Blend the mixture: Add basil leaves and blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a countertop blender.
Taste and adjust: Check the seasoning and adjust salt or pepper if needed.
Serve with toppings: Garnish with Parmesan, olive oil drizzle, and fresh basil leaves.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

Pair it with crusty bread: A slice of sourdough or baguette is perfect for dipping.
Serve with a fresh salad: A crisp side salad complements the creamy texture of the soup.
Include a protein: Grilled chicken or fish adds a hearty touch to the meal.
Top with crunchy croutons: A sprinkle of croutons provides a delightful crunch.
Add a side of roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots or asparagus enhance the flavors.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for firm zucchini and vibrant basil leaves for the best flavor.
Cook zucchini thoroughly: Ensure the zucchini is tender before blending for a smooth consistency.
Blend carefully: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or a countertop blender for a creamy texture.
Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup after blending and tweak the salt and pepper as needed.
Use homemade stock: For richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken or vegetable stock.
Experiment with garnishes: Try adding a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flair.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

Add cream for richness: Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk for a velvety texture.
Incorporate other herbs: Try parsley or mint alongside basil for a unique twist.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for some heat.
Include protein: Blend in cooked chicken or white beans for a more filling meal.
Make it vegan: Swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast and use vegetable stock.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

Cool before storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to containers.
Use airtight containers: Store in airtight jars or containers to keep it fresh.
Refrigerate for short-term storage: The soup can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze for longer storage: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Label the containers: Always label them with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup

Reheat gently on the stovetop: Warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Use the microwave for convenience: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Avoid boiling: Reheat gently to maintain the soup’s creamy texture and flavors.

FAQs

How do you thicken Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup?

You can thicken the soup by simmering it longer to reduce excess liquid or by adding a small amount of heavy cream or a handful of cooked potatoes before blending. These methods will enhance the creamy texture without altering the flavor.

Can I make Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup vegan?

Yes, this soup can easily be made vegan by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and replacing Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What is the best way to blend Zucchini Basil Soup?

The best way to blend the soup is by using an immersion blender directly in the pot. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches, ensuring the lid is slightly ajar to release steam and prevent splatters.

How long does Zucchini Basil Soup last in the refrigerator?

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten Zucchini Basil Soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its fresh ingredients, creamy texture, and versatile nature make it a staple in any kitchen.

Try it out and bring a bit of Ina Garten’s culinary magic to your table!

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