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Cold Zucchini Soup

(recipe, Caroline Cummins)


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Introduction

This recipe for a mildly curried purée originally comes from a CSA in Berkeley, California. It's been through at least two major tweaks, first by the CSA subscriber (a family friend) and then by my mother-in-law. It's delicious served warm, but it's worth it to chill it first for a refreshing summer supper.

Ingredients

    Soup
    1. ⅓ cup butter, olive oil, or a blend of the two
    2. 1 medium onion, diced
    3. 1 lb. zucchini, diced
    4. 1 lb. summer squash, diced
    5. ½ tsp. nutmeg
    6. ½ to 1 tsp. curry powder
    7. 2½ cups vegetable or chicken stock
    8. 1 can (about 14 ounces) coconut milk (light coconut milk is fine)
    9. Salt and pepper to taste
    Garnishes (optional)
    1. 2 Tbsp. fresh basil, chiffonaded into strips, or fresh cilantro leaves
    2. Freshly grated Parmesan

    Steps

    1. Put the fat in a large Dutch oven and, over medium heat, sauté the onion for a few minutes, then add the squash and sauté for another several minutes. Add the spices, then the stock, and bring to a low boil. Simmer for 15 minutes.
    2. Turn off the heat and use an immersion blender to smooth out the soup's texture to your desired consistency (slightly chunky is fine). Whisk in the coconut milk and adjust the seasoning.
    3. If you wish, reheat the soup and serve it warm. Otherwise, chill the soup for a few hours before serving it.
    4. When ready to serve, ladle into individual bowls and pass the optional garnishes at the table.

    Note

    This recipe serves 8 as an appetizer, 4 to 6 as a main course.