Creamy Zucchini Soup with Basil

Creamy Zucchini Soup with Basil is a light yet luxurious soup that celebrates fresh, simple ingredients. With tender zucchini simmered until soft and blended into a velvety smooth base, this soup is both comforting and refreshing. The addition of fragrant basil brings a bright, herbal note that perfectly balances the mild sweetness of zucchini, while a touch of cream (or a dairy-free alternative) gives the soup its signature silky texture.

This soup is ideal for late summer when zucchini is abundant, but it’s equally comforting year-round. Elegant enough for entertaining and easy enough for a weeknight dinner, Creamy Zucchini Soup with Basil is proof that wholesome food can also feel indulgent.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet full of flavor. It transforms humble zucchini into something special, and the fresh basil adds a beautiful aroma that makes every bowl feel fresh and satisfying. It’s also versatile—easy to make vegan, gluten-free, or extra creamy depending on your mood.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Light, creamy, and comforting
• Great way to use up fresh zucchini
• Naturally gluten-free
• Easy to adapt for vegan or dairy-free diets
• Ready in under 40 minutes

Preparation Time, Cooking Time & Servings

• Preparation Time: 10–15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: About 35–40 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 180–220 kcal
• Course: Appetizer / Soup
• Cuisine: Mediterranean / American

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium zucchini, sliced
• 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for vegan)
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Fresh basil or olive oil for garnish

Cooking Directions

1. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add zucchini and broth, then simmer.
3. Blend soup until smooth.
4. Stir in cream and basil.
5. Season and serve.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Sauté Aromatics:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
2. Cook the Zucchini:
   Add sliced zucchini to the pot and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
3. Add Broth:
   Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until zucchini is very tender.
4. Blend the Soup:
   Remove from heat and blend using an immersion blender or countertop blender until completely smooth.
5. Add Cream and Basil:
   Return soup to low heat. Stir in cream, basil leaves, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil.

How to Serve

• Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast
• Pair with a fresh green salad
• Top with grated Parmesan or croutons
• Serve chilled as a summer soup

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook basil—add it near the end for fresh flavor.
• Blend thoroughly for the smoothest texture.
• Use young, tender zucchini for best taste.
• Adjust thickness with extra broth if needed.

Variations

Vegan Zucchini Basil Soup

Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy.

Zucchini Potato Soup

Add one diced potato for a thicker, heartier texture.

Lemon Zucchini Soup

Add a splash of lemon juice and zest before serving.

Spicy Zucchini Soup

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Cheesy Zucchini Soup

Stir in grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar before serving.

Freezing and Storage Time

Storage

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

Freezing

• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Avoid freezing with cream; add cream after reheating for best texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Immersion blender or countertop blender
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle

Conclusion

Creamy Zucchini Soup with Basil is a beautifully simple, comforting dish that turns everyday vegetables into something elegant and nourishing. With its smooth texture, fresh herbal flavor, and easy preparation, it’s a soup you’ll come back to again and again—perfect for cozy nights or light, refreshing meals.