re: Parmesan Rind

No, I really don't remember what Costco carries. There are so many sources for Parmesan. The one that was twice as expensive is probably Parmeggiano Reggiano from Italy. It is really good when freshly grated and considered the best and by purists, probably the only one. There is a very good one out of Argentina that costs less. Then it comes from Canada, US and various European countries also. The one I buy at Sam's is Parmeggiano Reggiano and has a pale rind. I think any would be fine for soup.

Butternut squash is also mentioned as a good substitute for potatoes or zucchini, in small amounts. The article with the recipe mentions being careful about too many sweet vegetables. Sometimes I just add less of one and then one of the substitutions if I have them. It is hard to keep from adding too many, then I need more water. I sure hope you think your soup worth all this trouble!

I wish I had a Costco closer to me but the closest one is almost an hour away, and there is a new Sam's just minutes away. I like Costco better, though. My husband and I joke about it being an "upscale" warehouse club...isn't that an oxymoron?