Step 1

Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring, until soft, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the potatoes, thyme, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper and cook, stirring, until the potatoes are well coated, 2 to 3 minutes more. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 2

Add the zucchini, bring back to a simmer and cook until tender, about 10 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a simmer. Remove from the heat, discard the thyme and let cool at least 5 minutes. Stir the basil into the soup and carefully puree until smooth with a handheld immersion blender or in 2 to 3 batches in a blender (do not fill the blender more than halfway full).

Step 3

Reheat the soup if necessary, adjusting the consistency and seasoning with additional water, salt and pepper.

Step 4

Serve hot and garnish with a sprinkle of almonds, basil leaves and a drizzle of oil.