Avocado Zucchini Soup w/ Cucumber Salsa

This refreshingly cool soup boasts crisp zucchini and creamy avocado.  Fiber from summer squash and the avocado’s healthy monounsaturated fat help you fill up and stay fuller longer.  The vegetable broth and onion base, along with creamy almond milk, provide a delicious flavor boost but still keeps it to only about 100 calories per serving.  Top with a cucumber salsa for a fresh contrasting crunch. Ingredients4 (1 cup) ServingsFor the Salsa:1 peeled and finely diced medium cucumber(about 2 cups finely diced)2 tablespoons lime juice(from about 1 to 2 limes)1/2 cup chopped cilantro or chopped parsleyFor the Soup:2 medium zucchini(around 3 to 4 cups chopped)½ cup thinly sliced green onion, divided1 avocado, halved and pitted¾ cup unsweetened plain almond milk1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth1/8 tsp. ground cumin, optional1/8 teaspoon salt1/8 teaspoon black pepperDirectionsFor the Salsa:Peel and finely dice the English cucumber.Chop the cilantro; stir ingredients into the bowl. Cover and place in the refrigerator until ready to serve with the soup.For the Soup:Peel and roughly chop the onion; trim the ends off each zucchini and roughly chop too.In a large saucepan, over high heat, combine broth, zucchini and ¼ cup onion. Cover and bring to a boil.  Uncover, reduce heat and let simmer 6 minutes or until zucchini is tender.  Remove from heat and set aside for 20 minutes.In a blender, combine zucchini mix, avocado, cumin (if using), remaining 1 Table spoon lime juice and almond milk. Cover and puree until smooth.  Leaving soup in blender, refrigerate it for 2 hours.When ready to serve, re-blend soup. Additional almond milk for thinner consistency, if desired.Pour into serving bowls. Top with salsa and serve.PER Serving: 108 calories, 7.5 g total fat (1 g saturated fat), 10 g carbohydrate, 3 g protein, 5 g dietary fiber, 285 mg sodiumReprinted from: American Institute for Cancer Research