Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a Mediterranean-inspired soup that's not just a meal, but a culinary journey! This Fennel Zucchini and Tomato Soup is a magical blend of fresh vegetables that promises to warm your soul and impress even the most discerning food lovers. With its vibrant colors, aromatic herbs, and rich flavors, this Italian-style soup is about to become your new favorite comfort food that's both healthy and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 large fennel bulb, chopped
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping the fennel bulb, zucchinis, onion, and garlic. Open the can of diced tomatoes and have the vegetable broth ready.
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly soft, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Introduce chopped fennel to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the fennel to soften and become slightly caramelized.
- Add diced zucchinis to the pot and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to blend their flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed during the cooking process.
- Once vegetables are soft and soup has reached desired consistency, remove from heat.
- Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves just before serving.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select a crisp fennel bulb with bright green fronds and firm zucchinis for the best flavor and texture.
- Caramelization is Key: Take your time sautéing onions and fennel to develop deep, rich flavors before adding other ingredients.
- Don't Rush the Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer slowly to let the vegetables release their natural sweetness and the flavors to meld together perfectly.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh basil leaves add a burst of color and fresh aromatics, so don't skip this final touch.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making a larger batch for meal prep.
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add a splash of white wine while sautéing vegetables or sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
- Texture Tip: For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend some of the vegetables while leaving others chunky.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 135kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
