Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium zucchinis, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or immersion blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until onion is translucent.
2. Add chopped zucchinis to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until zucchinis are tender.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Using a blender or immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
5. Return the soup to the pot and stir in lime juice and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for sautéing and simmering
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 160
Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Olive oil can be substituted with any other cooking oil.
- Vegetable broth can be substituted with chicken or beef broth.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with coconut cream or milk for a vegan option.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for a heartier soup.
- Use lemon juice instead of lime juice for a different flavor.
- Top with croutons or shredded cheese for added texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to let the soup simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use an immersion blender for easier blending and less mess.
- Adjust the amount of lime juice to your taste preference.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve soup in a bowl with a sprig of fresh cilantro on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh cilantro, croutons, shredded cheese
Pairings:
Crusty bread, salad, grilled chicken
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, quinoa salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the soup to a temperature of at least 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
Zucchinis are believed to have originated in Central America and were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. They were later introduced to the United States in the 1920s.
Flavor profiles:
This soup has a bright and tangy flavor from the lime juice, balanced by the creamy texture from the heavy cream.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this soup as a light and refreshing meal on its own or as a starter to a larger meal.
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