Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the leeks, season with salt and cook, stirring, until very soft, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the zucchini, bay leaves and a pinch of salt; cook, stirring, until coated, about 2 minutes. Add 4 cups water, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the zucchini is very tender, about 10 minutes. Discard the bay leaves.
Working in batches if necessary, transfer the zucchini mixture to a blender and puree with the buttermilk, 1 cup dill and 1/2 cup parsley. Pour into a large metal bowl set in a larger bowl of ice water. Let sit, stirring occasionally, until cooled, about 10 minutes. Season with salt if necessary.
Meanwhile, toss the bread cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt; spread on a baking sheet. Bake until toasted, 10 to 12 minutes.
Combine the chicken, remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, the lemon zest and juice, mustard and 1 tablespoon each chopped dill and parsley in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper and toss.
Divide the soup among bowls and top with the chicken and croutons. Sprinkle with the chopped dill and parsley.
Tools You May Need
Photograph by Ralph Smith
Tools You May Need
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