There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup, especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This Slow Cooker Zucchini Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious, healthy meal with minimal effort. Zucchini, known for its mild flavor and versatility, becomes the star of this dish, providing a light yet satisfying base. Paired with aromatic vegetables and a touch of cream, this soup is both nutritious and comforting. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, coming back to a pot of perfectly cooked soup. Let’s explore how to make this delightful Slow Cooker Zucchini Soup.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Zucchini Soup
For the Soup:
- 4 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Slow Cooker Zucchini Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by washing and dicing the zucchinis. Set them aside.
- Peel and finely chop the onion.
- Peel and dice the carrots.
- Dice the celery stalks.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker.
- Add the diced zucchini, vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano, and the bay leaf to the slow cooker.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir everything to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Soup
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors well combined.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
- Once the soup is done cooking, remove the bay leaf.
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup.
- If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be cautious as the soup will be hot.
Step 6: Add the Cream
- After blending, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Let the soup cook on low for another 15-20 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
Step 7: Serve the Soup
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
About the Main Ingredients
Zucchini
Zucchini is a summer squash that is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it a fantastic ingredient for soups and stews. It is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. Zucchini’s mild flavor makes it incredibly versatile, blending well with various herbs and spices. In this recipe, zucchini provides a light, refreshing base that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the soup.
Onion
Onions are a fundamental ingredient in many savory dishes, providing a depth of flavor and a natural sweetness when cooked. They are also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. In this soup, onions are sautéed to release their flavors, creating a flavorful base for the broth.
Carrots
Carrots add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the soup. They are packed with beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, and antioxidants. Carrots also contribute to the overall texture and heartiness of the soup, making it more filling and nutritious.
Celery
Celery offers a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup. It is low in calories but high in vitamins K and A, folate, and potassium. Celery’s crunchy texture also adds an interesting contrast to the smoothness of the blended soup.
Garlic
Garlic is known for its strong, pungent flavor and numerous health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing the risk of heart disease. In this recipe, garlic adds a fragrant depth of flavor that complements the other vegetables.
Vegetable Broth
Vegetable broth serves as the base of the soup, providing a savory and aromatic foundation. It’s an excellent way to infuse the soup with additional flavors while keeping it vegetarian. If you prefer a non-vegetarian version, chicken broth can be used as a substitute.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk
Heavy cream adds richness and a creamy texture to the soup, making it more indulgent and satisfying. For those who prefer a dairy-free option, coconut milk is a great alternative that adds a slight sweetness and maintains the creaminess. Both options enhance the overall mouthfeel of the soup, making it velvety and smooth.
Dried Herbs
The combination of dried thyme, basil, and oregano adds a delightful aromatic quality to the soup. These herbs bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables and add a hint of Mediterranean flair to the dish. Thyme provides a subtle earthiness, basil adds a sweet, peppery note, and oregano contributes a robust, slightly bitter flavor.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Zucchini Soup is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients can create a delicious and wholesome meal. With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup that is both nutritious and satisfying. The combination of zucchini, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of cream results in a rich, flavorful soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to warm you up on a chilly day, this Slow Cooker Zucchini Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and delightful meal.
