Zucchini Soup Roasted and Garnished with Feta Cheese
### Zucchini Soup Roasted and Garnished with Feta
#### Overview
Zucchini soup roasted to perfection is a flavorful and healthy recipe that showcases the inherent sweetness of zucchini, amplified by the deep flavors from roasting. Finished with creamy feta cheese, this soup delivers an ideal mix of textures and flavors, making it perfect for a light meal or a soothing dinner.
#### Ingredients
– 4 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken stock
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh herbs for decoration (like basil or parsley)
#### Instructions
1. **Roast the Zucchini:**
Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the diced zucchini on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for around 20-25 minutes, or until the zucchini is soft and slightly caramelized.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:**
In a large pot, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Include the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until aromatic.
3. **Combine Ingredients:**
After the zucchini has roasted, incorporate it into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Add the vegetable or chicken stock, and mix in the dried thyme if desired. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
4. **Blend the Soup:**
With an immersion blender, blend the soup until it reaches a smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Handle hot liquids with care; allow the soup to cool slightly before blending if using a traditional blender.
5. **Finish the Soup:**
Put the blended soup back into the pot. Stir in the lemon juice and tweak the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if necessary. Warm the soup gently until heated through.
6. **Serve:**
Pour the soup into bowls and sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese. Finish with fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor and brightness.
#### Nutritional Advantages
Zucchini is low in calories and rich in vitamins A and C, making it an excellent component of a nutritious diet. Roasting enhances the flavor of zucchini while preserving its nutritional benefits. Feta cheese contributes protein and calcium, enriching the soup’s overall health advantages.
#### Variations
– **Add Other Vegetables:** Mix in additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrients.
– **Spice It Up:** Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
– **Herb Infusion:** Try different herbs like dill or oregano for diverse flavor experiences.
#### Conclusion
Zucchini soup roasted and topped with feta is a straightforward yet refined dish suitable for any season. Its simplicity in preparation and health benefits make it an ideal option for both hectic weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners. Relish this comforting soup as a wholesome choice that delights the taste buds and nourishes the body.