8 Recipes for Summer Squash Soup

Unknown to many, the difference between summer squash and winter squash is simply related to the time of harvest. Summer squash are picked early while immature and the shells are still tender. Winter squash are taken up later in the season with the traditional autumn harvest once their shells have hardened up-making their way into grocery stores and fall harvest festivals everywhere. Each have plenty of uses and are fantastically nutritious. However, summer squash is the handiest for summer soup-making, which we will be working with for today's recipes of summer squash soup.

Farmers in the United States provide several types of summer squash annually including zucchini, crookneck and straightneck varieties, as well as scallop squashes. With a few variations in shape and color, you can find most in health food stores, regular grocers and farmers markets during the summer-and all are delicious and chock full of antioxidants. With that in mind, let's explore the summer squash soup recipes that can be made with these nutrient-packed and flavorful foods. Here are our favorite summer squash soup recipes!

Farmers Market Minestrone

Every veggie known to summer finds it way into this colorful concoction, including yellow squash, zucchini and eggplant. Serve topped with your favorite garden-fresh herbs, crunchy homemade croutons or freshly grated cheeses.

Get the recipe here: Farmers Market Minestrone

Zucchini & Yellow Squash Soup with Rosemary & Vegan Parmesan

Spicy Chickpea Summertime Stew

You can create this lovely Asian-spiced delight in 30 minutes or less. Don't fret if you don't have any sambal oelek handy-you can either make some of your own vegan-style homemade or order it here or here.

Spicy Summer Squash Soup

Summer Squash Stew Ratatouille

Coconut Curry Summer Squash Soup

Summer Squash Farro Chili and Red Beans

This is a hearty and spicy vegan dish perfect for lunch or dinner. Best served with your favorite toppings, like crackers and vegan grated cheddar.