Squash, Squash Blossom, Thyme, Garlic, and Egg Soup -

Squash, Squash Blossom, Thyme, Garlic, and Egg Soup

While the squash blossoms make me adore this recipe, the combination of flavors provides for a delicious and comforting soup.

Serves 2-4

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil , plus additional for serving
6 garlic cloves , peeled
6 yellow squash , trimmed, and sliced 1/2 inch thick
9-10 squash blossoms , stems and stamens removed, plus 1 additional for serving, chopped
1/4 cup fresh thyme leaves , plus additional for toast
6 cups water
2 large eggs
3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
2 to 4 thin slices from a loaf of rustic bread , toasted
Plain goat cheese for serving
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 5 minutes to soften. Add the squash, squash blossoms, and thyme and cook for 4 minutes longer. Add the water, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes. Taste for seasoning and season with additional salt and pepper if desired. Remove from the heat.
Transfer the soup to a blender and, carefully, puree the soup for 1 minute, or until it has a smooth consistency. Return the soup to the pot over medium-low heat.
Divide the eggs. Add the egg whites to the pot, stirring for 1 minute. Add the egg yolks to the pot and stir until combined. Add the vinegar and stir. Taste for seasoning and season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Spread some goat cheese over the toasted bread and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
Divide the soup into individual bowls. Sprinkle the chopped squash blossom on top of the soup, and drizzle with a little bit of olive oil. Serve immediately.