Chilled Zucchini Soup with Basil Mascarpone Cream

If you grow zucchini in your garden and are looking for ways to use up the proverbial bumper crop, this recipe is an excellent place to start. It is elegant and easy to prepare on a hot summer's day. The basil mascarpone cream lends a luxurious note. For maximum flavor, be sure to bring the cheese to room temperature before adding the herb to it.

When you are entertaining, Wild Rice and Roasted Corn Salad make a fine accompaniment and look especially appealing with this soup.