Chilled artichoke and fennel soup

Chilled Artichoke and Fennel Soup Recipe: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Looking for a refreshing and healthy soup recipe to beat the summer heat? Try this chilled artichoke and fennel soup that's packed with flavor and nutrients. This soup is perfect for a light lunch or as an appetizer for a dinner party. The best part? It's easy to make and can be prepared in advance.

Ingredients (serves 4):

- 2 large artichokes, trimmed and chopped
- 1 large fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish

Cooking Tips:

- To trim the artichokes, remove the tough outer leaves and cut off the top third of the artichoke. Cut the remaining artichoke into small pieces and soak them in lemon water to prevent discoloration.
- Use a sharp knife to chop the fennel and onion into small pieces.
- For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.

Cooking Process:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped artichokes and fennel to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Appearance and Taste:
This chilled artichoke and fennel soup is a beautiful light green color and has a smooth and creamy texture. The flavor is a perfect balance of the earthy artichokes and the slightly sweet and anise-like fennel. The addition of heavy cream gives the soup a luxurious and velvety finish. Garnish with a lemon wedge and fresh herbs for a pop of color and added freshness.
Type of Dish: Chilled Soup
Main Ingredients: Artichokes, Fennel, Vegetable Broth