Creamy Cauliflower & Zucchini Soup
This cauliflower and zucchini soup gets its silky texture from blending mellow-flavored cauliflower and zucchini together. Just a touch of milk and cream combine with sharp Cheddar cheese to add additional creaminess and savory flavors to this warming vegetarian soup.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups chopped leek
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 3 cups chopped zucchini
- 8 cups chopped cauliflower
- 3 ½ cups lower-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 cup reduced-fat milk
- 2 large cloves garlic
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- pinch of ground nutmeg
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup half-and-half
- ½ cup crispy fried shallots (see tip)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives