Fresh and light, this creamy courgette soup with mint is a great starter to be serve with some delicious croutons during a summer lunch. The freshness of the mint and the vitamin-packed courgettes will satisfy even those who don’t particularly like eating when it’s hot. And not only that: if you are a vegetarian, or simply love eating vegetables, you will see that this creamy courgette soup offers plenty of ideas for other velvety soups, to be served hot or cold at any time of the year. Peas, carrots, mixed vegetables … etc etc: almost all vegetables, including the legumes, lend themselves perfectly to the creation of stunning creamy soups.
* approximate values per serving
Cut the courgette into cubes. Cut the onion into thick slices. Coarsely chop the fresh mint. Sauté the courgette lightly along with the onion in saucepan, adding a little water and salt. Add the mint and blend everything together with an electric hand mixer.
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Cut the courgettes into cubes
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Cut the onion into slices
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Roughly chop the mint
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Lightly sweat the courgettes and onion together in a saucepan adding a little water and salt
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Cook the courgettes and onion in the saucepan and add the mint
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Add the milk and blend with an electric hand mixer
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Warm up the creamy soup
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The cream of courgette soup is ready, served with a dash of aromatic extra virgin olive oil
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A delicious variant of the classic zucchini and mint velouté includes the addition of milk, which makes the dish even creamier and more enveloping. To prepare this version, after cooking the zucchini and onions, simply add a desired amount of milk during the blending phase. The milk not only enriches the flavor but also gives a velvety texture that envelops the palate. This preparation is ideal for those looking for a healthy and nutritious comfort food, perfect for a light dinner or as a refined appetizer. Serve the velouté hot, garnished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few fresh mint leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
The Piedmontese zucchini and mint velouté represents a traditional interpretation of this dish, enriched with typical ingredients from Piedmont. In this variant, potatoes can be added to give more body to the mixture, making the velouté even more satisfying. Fresh mint, an aromatic herb typical of the regional cuisine, enhances the flavor of the zucchini, creating a perfect balance between sweetness and freshness. Additionally, the preparation can also be done in a pressure cooker, reducing cooking times and preserving nutrients. This version is perfect for those who wish to savor a dish that encapsulates the authentic flavors of the Piedmontese lands.
For those who are calorie-conscious, the zucchini and mint velouté can be prepared in a light version without milk. By replacing the milk with water or vegetable broth, a light yet equally tasty preparation is achieved. This variant is ideal for those on a low-calorie diet or for those with lactose intolerance. The recipe remains simple and quick to prepare, preserving the fresh flavors of zucchini and mint. Adding spices like black pepper or a pinch of chili can give a touch of liveliness to the dish without weighing it down. Serve the velouté with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh mint for a truly light and flavorful dish.
Zucchini, the main ingredient of the zucchini and mint velouté, is a vegetable rich in water and low in calories, with only 17 calories per 100 grams. They are an excellent source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin A, and contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals. The presence of mint not only enriches the dish with freshness but also provides digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. This dish, therefore, is not only a tasty option but also a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Thanks to its lightness, the zucchini and mint velouté can also be consumed during a balanced diet, ensuring nutritional intake without sacrificing flavor.
Yes, zucchini and mint velouté can be frozen without any issues. To achieve the best results, it is advisable to let the velouté cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers suitable for freezing. This way, flavor and texture are preserved. It is important to note that once thawed, the velouté may be slightly more liquid; in this case, it can be reheated and a bit of milk or broth can be added to restore the right consistency. By freezing the velouté, you can always have a healthy and quick meal on hand, ideal for days when there is little time to cook. Remember to consume it within 2-3 months to ensure the best quality.