Creamy Zucchini Soup

Submitted by: Patricia	Country: Canada
Category: Home/Soups & Creams
Quantity: 6 to 8 servings	Preparation time: 0:10 hr. Cooking time: 0:30 hr.

Ingredients

6 cups	chopped zucchini, unpeeled	1.5 L
	salt
1-1/2 tbsp	olive oil	25 mL
1-1/2 tbsp	butter	25 mL
1	large onion, finely chopped	1
1	clove garlic, crushed	1
5 cups	vegetable or chicken stock	1.25 mL
1 tbsp	lemon juice	15 mL
1 tbsp	chopped chives	15 mL
1/2 tsp	basil	3 mL
1/2 tsp	oregano	3 mL
	salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 cup	whipping cream (or light cream)	125 mL
	chopped chives, to garnish

Sprinkle zucchini with salt. To draw out liquid, place zucchini in large sieve over bowl, for about 1 hour.

In large saucepan, heat oil and butter. Stir in onion and garlic. Cook about 5 minutes or until onions are soft.

Add zucchini; cook stirrring frequently, for 5 minutes.

Blend in vegetable or chicken stock; simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

Remove from heat. Season with lemon juice, chives, basil and oregano. Purée mixture in blender. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Return to saucepan; stir in cream. Heat thoroughly but do not boil.

Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives.