Courgette Soup

Wash the courgettes and chop into chunks. Peel and cut the potatoes into small cubes.

Peel and slice the onion. Crush the garlic

Heat the olive oil in a large pan and add the onion and garlic. Lightly fry for about 5 minutes to soften

Add the potatoes to the pan, cover with half of the stock or water, bring to the boil and then reduce to a simmer for about 15 minutes until half-cooked

Add the courgette chunks, salt and pepper to taste, chopped oregano and basil and the rest of the stock or water, bring to the boil and then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fully cooked.

Either rub through a sieve or put through a blender to make a smooth purée.

Return to a clean pan, re-heat and add the cream, grated parmesan and chopped chives without boiling.

Serve immediately with a sprinkling of cheese on the top of the bowls.