Creamy Zucchini Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
02 - 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
03 - 2 fresh garlic cloves, minced

→ Main Components

04 - 4 medium fresh zucchini (about 1½-2 pounds), ends removed, halved lengthwise and sliced
05 - 3 cups quality vegetable or chicken stock (add more for thinner consistency)
06 - ¼ cup raw cashews for creaminess

→ Seasonings & Finishing Touches

07 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
08 - ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
09 - 2 tablespoons bright fresh lemon juice
10 - 2 tablespoons freshly chopped herbs (dill, basil, or parsley work beautifully)
11 - Extra fresh herbs and olive oil for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Warm the olive oil in a spacious pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes wonderfully soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
02 - Add the sliced zucchini, broth, cashews, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer peacefully for 15-20 minutes, until the zucchini pieces are perfectly tender.
03 - Stir in the fresh herbs and bright lemon juice. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a high-speed blender and pulse for 15-30 seconds until silky smooth.
04 - Ladle the creamy soup into warmed bowls. Finish with a generous drizzle of good olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation and extra flavor.

# Notes:

01 - This soup is perfect for using up abundant summer zucchini and makes a light, satisfying weeknight meal
02 - A high-powered blender will give you an ultra-smooth texture, while an immersion blender creates a slightly more rustic consistency - both are delicious
03 - The raw cashews add incredible creaminess without any dairy, making this naturally vegan-friendly