Note: Courgette soup can be made with chicken or vegetable stock.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (or more) fresh unpeeled zucchini/courgettes, finely chopped
• 2 tbs minced onion or shallots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
• 2 tbs butter or olive oil
• 2 c chicken or vegetable stock
• 1/2 tsp salt
• black pepper to taste
• pinch of nutmeg
• 1/2 c light/single cream (optional)
• croutons and minced chives to garnish

Method

Heat the butter or oil in a heavy saucepan and saute the onions and garlic until soft. Add the chopped zucchini/courgettes and cook until that is soft but not brown. Add the stock and seasonings. Simmer covered for 10–15 minutes. Add the cream, if used and warm through. Run through a food processor if a smoother soup is desired. Serve hot with croutons or chill for a few hours and serve cold with chives sprinkled on top.

Enjoy this zucchini soup.