Yellow Crookneck Squash Soup

Although yellow crookneck squash isn't a nutritional powerhouse like its winter squash cousins, yellow crookneck has plenty to offer, including fiber, potassium and vitamin C. Serve yellow crookneck hot, or chill the soup for a refreshing and nourishing hot-weather meal. Use tender, unpeeled summer squash to retain the high level of nutrients found in the skin.

Squash

Unlike winter squash that has hard rinds, summer squash is tender and easy to slice for use in soup and other recipes. Choose summer squash measuring no more than 8 inches in length, as summer squash loses its flavor as it grows larger. Look for squash free of bruises and blemishes. Other varieties of summer squash are easily substituted for yellow crookneck, as summer squashes, such as zucchini and scalloped squash, are similar in flavor and texture.

Liquid

While plain water is suitable for making yellow crookneck squash soup, broth gives the soup more flavor and substance. For a vegetarian soup, use either canned or homemade vegetable broth. Otherwise, canned or homemade chicken broth is a flavorful base for the soup. For a low-salt soup, use low-sodium canned soups. Low-fat soups are also available.

Add-Ins

Tailor your yellow crookneck squash soup by incorporating your choice of extra vegetables and other add-ins. Onions and garlic add flavor to your soup, or you can give your soup a gourmet spin with chopped green onions, shallots or leeks. Corn works well in a summertime soup, especially if you have access to fresh corn on the cob, loaded with sweet flavor. Use a sharp knife to cut the kernels from the cob. If you like a bit of heat, stir in chopped jalapenos or other hot chili peppers. You can also add a handful of rice or bow tie pasta. Simmer a ham hock in the soup or add bacon for a meaty flavor.

Seasonings

Seasonings provide an all-important finishing touch to your yellow crookneck squash soup. Start with a dash of salt and freshly-ground black pepper to taste, then add seasonings to suit your preferences. Possible seasonings include fresh summertime herbs such as thyme, basil, parsley and oregano or a bit of dried cumin.