### Creamy Summer Squash Soup Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Dish
Summer is the perfect season to enjoy cool, refreshing soups that pack a punch of flavor without weighing you down. One such delightful dish is creamy summer squash soup. This recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with nutrients and flavors that will delight your taste buds. Follow these detailed steps for a mouthwatering meal.
#### Ingredients Needed:
- 4 medium-sized summer squashes (yellow or zucchini)
- Wash the summer squashes thoroughly under cold water.
- Cut them into bite-sized pieces. You can either use a knife to cut them or grate them using a box grater.
**Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic**
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant but not browned.
**Step 3: Add Squash and Herbs**
- Place the summer squash pieces into the pot with the onions and garlic.
- Stir in thyme (or fresh leaves) along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
**Step 4: Add Broth**
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth to cover the vegetables by about an inch. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the squash is very tender.
**Step 5: Blend the Soup**
- Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (leave some liquid behind in the pot if needed) or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
- Blend on high speed until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot and stir gently.
**Step 6: Add Cream and Seasoning**
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously.
- Heat the soup over low heat, just enough to warm it through without boiling. Add more salt and pepper if needed.
**Step 7: Serve**
- Ladle the creamy summer squash soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an extra burst of freshness.
#### Tips for a Perfect Soup:
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or basil for added depth.
- For a smoother consistency, you can strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve before adding the cream.
- Adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your preference; less will yield a lighter soup while more will give it a richer texture.
This recipe is perfect for a light summer lunch or as part of a larger dinner menu. Enjoy your refreshing and creamy summer squash soup, which is both satisfying and easy to prepare!