Zesty Summer Squash Pistou Soup

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €9.06 · €1.51/serving

• 3/4 stick (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, cut into piecesEst. price €0.45–€0.85
• 1 medium onion, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswiseEst. price €0.30–€0.60
• 1/2 teaspoon saltEst. price €0.01–€0.03
• 2 lb yellow summer squash, halved and thinly slicedEst. price €2.80–€4.50
• 2 carrots, thinly slicedEst. price €0.40–€0.70
• 4 cups chicken stock or reduced-sodium chicken brothEst. price €2.00–€3.50
• 3/4 cup loosely packed fresh mint leavesEst. price €1.50–€2.50
• 1/2 cup loosely packed fresh flat-leaf parsley sprigsEst. price €0.80–€1.50
• 1 large scallion, chopped (1/2 cup)Est. price €0.20–€0.40
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oilEst. price €0.60–€1.20

Steps

1. 1

   In a wide heavy pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the onion and salt, cooking until the onion is softened, which should take around 8 minutes. Once softened, add in the squash, carrots, potato, and stock. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to a simmer. Partially cover the pot and let it simmer until all the vegetables are very tender, approximately 20 minutes. Take the pot off the heat and allow the soup to cool down uncovered for about 10 minutes before serving.

2. 2

   In batches, blend the soup until smooth in a blender (be careful when blending hot liquids) and transfer it to a bowl. Pour the puree back into the cleaned pot and adjust the consistency with water if needed. Let it simmer for 3 minutes, then season with salt to taste.

3. 3

   In a food processor, pulse mint, parsley, and scallion until finely chopped. While the processor is running, slowly pour in oil followed by water and salt. Continue blending until everything is well combined.

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• Cultural note

  Pistou soup originates from Provence, France, where it is a traditional vegetable soup often made with seasonal produce. The use of fresh herbs like mint and parsley reflects the French culinary emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients.

• Seasonal note

  This Zesty Summer Squash Pistou Soup is best made during the summer months when yellow summer squash, carrots, and fresh herbs like mint and parsley are in season. These ingredients are most flavorful and affordable during this time.

• Health note

  This soup is a nutritious choice as it is low in calories and cholesterol, high in fiber, and a good source of vitamins A, C, and K. The combination of vegetables and herbs provides antioxidants, while the fiber content helps with digestion and satiety.