Zucchini-Corn Soup with Crispy Bacon

Remove husks from ears of corn. Scrub with a stiff brush to remove silks; rinse. Cut kernels from corn cobs; reserve kernels and cobs.

In a 4-quart Dutch oven heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, salt, and pepper; cook about 5 minutes or until onion is tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in thyme and garlic; cook and stir about 30 seconds or until garlic is fragrant. Add broth, bay leaf, and the reserved corn cobs.

Bring mixture to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Stir in zucchini and the reserved corn kernels. Simmer, uncovered, about 5 minutes more or just until zucchini is tender. Remove and discard corn cobs and bay leaf. Sprinkle each serving with bacon.