This zucchini and basil soup is a light and refreshing dish, perfect for any season. Blended with fresh basil and finished with a splash of lemon juice, it’s a flavorful and nutritious choice for a quick and healthy meal.
Why Choose This Soup?
Zucchini and basil combine to create a smooth, aromatic soup that’s both low in calories and high in flavor. The addition of lemon juice enhances the natural freshness, making this dish both revitalizing and satisfying.
Ingredients for a Light and Refreshing Bowl
Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients:
3 medium zucchinis, chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup fresh basil leaves
3 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Juice of half a lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and chop the zucchinis into small pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté for Flavor
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Cook the Zucchini
Add the chopped zucchini to the pot. Stir and cook for 5 minutes until the zucchini starts to soften.
4. Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the zucchini is fully cooked.
5. Blend to Perfection
Add the fresh basil leaves to the pot. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches.
6. Season and Garnish
Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Health Benefits of Zucchini and Basil
Low in Calories, High in Nutrition
Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, while basil provides antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hydrating and Detoxifying
With its high water content, zucchini helps keep you hydrated and supports digestion.
Fresh and Revitalizing
The combination of zucchini, basil, and lemon makes this soup light and refreshing, perfect for a detox or light meal.
Tips for the Best Soup
For extra creaminess, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk.
Pair with whole-grain bread or crackers for a more filling meal.
Adjust the consistency with more broth if you prefer a thinner soup.
Explore More Healthy Recipes
For more light and healthy dishes, visit Wellness Eats and Nutrition.
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