This Middle Eastern-Inspired Roasted Zucchini Soup is wonderfully simple yet full of flavor, made with roasted zucchini, onions, and garlic, and spiced with paprika, cumin, and coriander. A splash of lemon juice and a handful of fresh herbs finish it off, bringing vibrant Lebanese-inspired flavor to your table.
2(32-ounce)cartons low-sodium vegetable broth (or use ½ water + ½ broth
1½tsppaprika (regular, sweet, or smoky)
1½tspcumin
1 ½tspcoriander
2lemons, juiced
2tbspmint, chopped
2tbspparsley, chopped
Optional Garnishes
Pomegranate seeds
Plain plant-based yogurt (thinned out with water if desired)
Extra chopped mint and parsley
Paprika shake
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Instructions
Turn your oven on: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Vegetables: Place the zucchini, onion, and garlic on a baking sheet. Drizzle 2 tbsp olive oilover the vegetables and season with ¼ tsp saltand¼ tsp black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Now roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the zucchini is lightly golden and tender, tossing about halfway through.
Blend the soup: Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and let cool slightly.If using a blender: Transfer half of the roasted vegetables and 1 (32 oz) carton vegetable broth to a blender. Blend until smooth, then repeat with the second carton and remaining vegetables.If using an immersion blender: Add all roasted vegetables and 64 oz vegetable broth directly to a large pot, then blend until smooth.
Add spices: Pour the blended mixture into a large pot (if not already in one). Bring to a low boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Stir in 1½ tsp paprika, 1½ tsp cumin, 1½ tsp coriander, plus the remaining ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, especially if not using low-sodium broth.
Simmer and finish: Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to let the flavors meld. Stir in the juice of 2 lemons and 2 tbsp each chopped mint and parsley. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve: Ladle hot into bowls. Garnish with extra mint or parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, a spoonful of plant-based yogurt (thinned with water if thick), and pomegranate seeds if desired. Serve with warm bread or pita.
Notes
Low-sodium brothIf not using low-sodium broth, start with less salt and adjust as the soup cooks to avoid over-salting.Texture noteThis soup won’t be perfectly smooth—zucchini adds a slight texture that makes it hearty and comforting.StorageStore in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.FreezingFreeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw the morning of serving and reheat as usual.