Spicy Zucchini Soup

from elise's blog. reminds me of my stepmother's chilled zucchini soup, but it wasn't spicy.

If you are using extra large zucchini, scoop out and discard the seeds first. And if the skin is thick or tough, peel it and discard the peels.
Ingredients

* 4 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 onion, finely chopped
* 1/2 jalapeno chile (seeds, stems and ribs removed), chopped
* 3 chopped garlic cloves
* 2 pounds chopped zucchini (skin on), about 5-6 cups
* 1 1/2 cups chopped day-old bread
* 3 cups chicken broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
* 1 cup water
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
* 2 teaspoons lemon juice
* Salt
* Pepper

Method

1 Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and jalapeno chile and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions are translucent, but not browned. Add the garlic and zucchini and sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring often. Sprinkle with salt.

2 Add the bread, broth, and water, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer gently for 20 minutes.

3 Remove from heat. Add the mint and cilantro (if using). Purée in a blender or food processor until smooth, working in batches if necessary. Or use an immersion blender.