When summer gardens overflow with zucchini and tomatoes, this soup is the perfect solution. Tomato Zucchini Soup celebrates the season's best produce in a light, healthy bowl. The tender zucchini adds a delicate texture while tomatoes bring bright acidity. It's the kind of soup that makes you feel good about what you're eating—fresh, vegetable-forward, and absolutely delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
The key is cooking the zucchini just right—tender but not mushy. By sautéing it first before adding the tomatoes, you develop a bit of caramelization and ensure it holds its shape. The diced tomatoes provide chunks of fruit throughout, while the broth creates a light, brothy consistency. Fresh basil and Parmesan at the end add richness without weighing down this summery soup.
Choosing Your Zucchini
Medium-sized zucchini (6-8 inches) have the best flavor and texture. Smaller ones are sweeter but may fall apart; larger ones can be watery with tough seeds. Look for firm zucchini with shiny skin and no soft spots. Both green and yellow zucchini work—use a mix for a colorful soup.
Step-by-Step Guide
Start with a good sauté of onion and garlic to build your flavor base. Add the diced zucchini and let it cook just until it starts to soften—about 5 minutes. You want some caramelization on the edges but still-firm centers.
When the tomatoes and broth go in, the soup comes together quickly. Fifteen minutes of simmering melds the flavors while keeping the vegetables fresh-tasting. Decide on your texture preference—chunky, partially blended, or smooth—and finish with fresh basil and generous Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread and a drizzle of good olive oil. This soup pairs beautifully with a grilled cheese sandwich or simple green salad. For a heartier meal, add cooked white beans or small pasta. It's also excellent served at room temperature or even chilled on hot summer days.
Variations to Try
- Italian garden: Add diced bell peppers and fresh oregano
- Creamy version: Stir in 1/4 cup cream or cream cheese
- Protein boost: Add white beans or chickpeas
- Mediterranean style: Top with crumbled feta and olives
Tomato Zucchini Soup
Nutrition (per serving)
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Cook zucchini. Add diced zucchini to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until zucchini starts to soften.
- Simmer soup. Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add oregano and dried basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Blend if desired. For a chunkier soup, leave as is. For a smoother texture, partially blend with an immersion blender. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve. Ladle into bowls. Top with fresh torn basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Recipe Notes
- Use medium-sized zucchini for the best texture
- Don't overcook the zucchini—it should be tender but not mushy
- Fresh Parmesan makes a noticeable difference over pre-grated
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use yellow squash instead of zucchini?
Absolutely! Yellow squash has a similar texture and flavor to zucchini. You can also use a mix of both for a more colorful soup. Patty pan squash works too.
Should I peel the zucchini?
No need to peel. The skin is tender and adds fiber and nutrients. Just wash well and trim the ends. If using large zucchini with tough skin, you can peel strips.
What's the best way to use up lots of zucchini?
This soup is perfect for using up a garden abundance. You can double the zucchini amount—the soup will just be heartier. Extra soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup chunky or smooth?
Both work beautifully. For chunky, leave it as is. For smooth, blend completely. Most prefer a partial blend—some chunks of zucchini in a smooth tomato base.
How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy?
Cut zucchini into larger dice (3/4 inch) and don't overcook. Add it after the onions and only cook until just tender. Smaller pieces will become soft quickly.