Gagootz! Grandma’s Pizzo’s Zuppa di Cucuzza

My father's mother made this traditional Sicilian summer soup, and it has always been one of our family's favorite recipes. We all loved when she made a big pot of Gagootz soup, known properly as Zuppa di Cucuzza or Minestra di Cucuzza. The very best part was searching through our bowls for the chunks of Pecorino Romano cheese and the cheese rinds she would add at the end. Whoever found the biggest piece felt like they had won a prize!

This simple soup is made with zucchini, onions, tomatoes, olive oil, and plenty of Pecorino Romano cheese. It's hearty, comforting, and full of the flavors of summer. While some people like to add pasta, my grandmother always served it without pasta and let the vegetables and cheese be the stars of the dish.