Zucchini and Watercress Soup

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Sophie Dahl likes eating peppery watercress in the spring and has figured out a way to highlight its bright flavor in this silky soup. A single tablespoon of cream gives the vivid green soup a touch of richness.

Zucchini-and-Watercress Soup
Photo: © Jan Baldwin
Total Time:
35 mins
Yield:
4

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 1 small pinch of saffron threads (about 10), crumbled

  • 1 pound zucchini, coarsely chopped

  • 3 cups chicken stock

  • 8 ounces watercress, chopped

  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream

  • Salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and saffron threads and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, 7 minutes. Add the zucchini and chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Cook over low heat until the zucchini is tender, 10 minutes. Add the watercress and cook for 5 minutes longer.

  2. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the onion, zucchini and watercress to a blender. Add the cream and 1/2 cup of the stock and puree until smooth. Return the puree to the saucepan and season with salt and pepper. Gently rewarm the soup and ladle into bowls.

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