Summer Pistou

Story behind the dish

As summer begins to wind down, there's nothing more comforting than a vibrant, fresh soup that captures the essence of the season. Summer Pistou is a delightful French-inspired dish that bursts with bright vegetable flavors and aromatic basil. It’s the perfect way to make use of garden bounty and enjoy a warm, nourishing meal or a cool, portable lunch. Each spoonful offers a taste of sunny days, fresh herbs, and hearty beans—a true celebration of seasonal produce.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon rapeseed oil
  (0.5 fl oz / 15 ml)
• 2 leeks, finely chopped
• 1 large zucchini or courgette, chopped
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable stock
• 14 oz (400 g) cannellini beans
• 7 oz (200 g) green beans
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• Small pack fresh basil, roughly chopped
• 1.5 oz (40 g) Parmesan cheese, grated

Step-by-step

1. Heat the rapeseed oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and zucchini, cooking for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their aroma.
2. Pour in the vegetable stock. Add three-quarters of the cannellini beans, the green beans, half of the chopped tomatoes, and bring to a simmer. Cook gently for 5-8 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.
3. While the soup simmers, prepare the pistou: in a food processor (or using a stick blender in a bowl), blend the remaining cannellini beans, tomatoes, garlic, and basil until smooth. Stir in the grated Parmesan.
4. Carefully mix the pistou into the simmering soup. Cook for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
5. Ladle half of the soup into bowls for immediate serving or pour into a flask for a tasty packed lunch. Chill the remaining soup for up to a couple of days—it only gets better with time.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of chili flakes to the pistou or sprinkle some freshly ground black pepper on top before serving.
• Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Closing thoughts

Summer Pistou is a celebration of fresh produce and simple techniques, making it an easy yet impressive dish to whip up. Whether enjoyed on a warm afternoon or packed for a picnic, this soup brings the vibrant flavors of summer into every spoonful. With its fragrant basil and hearty beans, it's a comforting reminder that the best meals are often just a handful of fresh ingredients combined with love.