Soup Recipes

Chilled Cucumber Soup Recipe

When the weather heats up and the sun is blazing, few things are as refreshing as a chilled soup. It’s the perfect way to cool down, hydrate, and enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer. One of the most popular, yet often overlooked, chilled soups is the Chilled Cucumber Soup. This dish is light, crisp, and oh-so-refreshing. It’s packed with nutrients, easy to make, and can be served as a starter, light lunch, or even a side dish to accompany your main course. The cool, velvety texture of the cucumber, combined with creamy yogurt or sour cream, creates a luxurious and soothing soup that will have you coming back for more.

Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, preparing a meal to unwind after a busy day, or simply craving something light and hydrating, this chilled cucumber soup checks all the boxes. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the recipe, break down the ingredients, share some expert tips, and even discuss some exciting variations you can try. Let’s jump right in!

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Chilled Cucumber Soup Recipe

This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients that not only taste amazing but are also incredibly easy to prepare. The star of the show is the cucumber, with its refreshing crunch and mild, watery nature, making it the ideal candidate for a cooling summer soup. We’ll blend it with yogurt (or sour cream, depending on your preference) to give it a creamy, silky texture that balances the crispness of the cucumber. The fresh herbs add a fragrant pop, while the garlic and lemon bring a layer of complexity and zing.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious chilled cucumber soup:

  • 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped

    • Fresh, crisp cucumbers are the base. Their mild flavor and high water content make them perfect for a chilled soup.

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

    • Greek yogurt adds a creamy richness while still keeping the soup light. Sour cream is an excellent alternative if you want a bit more tang.

  • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped

    • A mild onion will add a subtle savory layer to the soup without overpowering the cucumber’s fresh flavor.

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

    • A touch of garlic enhances the flavor profile with its savory warmth.

  • 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped

    • Dill pairs so wonderfully with cucumbers and adds an aromatic touch that makes the soup feel even more refreshing.

  • 1 Tbsp Lemon Juice

    • A splash of lemon juice provides a little tartness and brightness that complements the cool cucumber.

  • 1 cup vegetable broth (or water)

    • The broth adds depth to the soup without compromising its delicate flavors. You can use water for a lighter version.

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

    • These are the seasoning essentials that bring all the flavors together. Use sparingly at first, as you can always add more at the end.

  • Optional Garnish

    • Sliced cucumber, fresh dill sprigs, or a drizzle of olive oil
    • These optional garnishes enhance the visual appeal and can add extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Instructions

This recipe is as simple as it gets. There’s no heat involved, making it perfect for hot days when the last thing you want to do is stand in front of a stove.

  1. Prepare The Cucumbers

    • Start by peeling the cucumbers. While the skin is edible, peeling them gives the soup a smoother texture.
    • Slice them into chunks, making them easier to blend.

  2. Blend The Base Ingredients

    • Add the chopped cucumbers, Greek yogurt, garlic, onion, and dill to a blender or food processor.
    • Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and lemon juice.
    • Blend on high for about 1-2 minutes, until everything is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding salt and pepper as necessary.

  3. Chill The Soup

    • Once your soup is blended, transfer it to a bowl or airtight container.
    • Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to chill thoroughly.

  4. Serve

    • After chilling, stir the soup to ensure it’s well-mixed.
    • Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh cucumber slices, a sprinkle of dill, or a drizzle of olive oil.

  5. Enjoy

    • Serve this chilled cucumber soup as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a refreshing side dish to your summer meals.

Ingredient Insights

  • Cucumbers

    • Cucumbers are loaded with water-over 95% of their weight is water, making them incredibly hydrating. They also provide a small amount of fiber, which is excellent for digestion. Cucumbers are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect the body from free radicals.

  • Greek Yogurt

    • Greek yogurt is thicker than regular yogurt, offering a creamy texture while providing protein, calcium, and probiotics that are beneficial for gut health. It’s a healthier option than sour cream but still delivers a similar richness.

  • Dill

    • Dill isn’t just for flavor-it’s also rich in antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains vitamins A and C, which are essential for skin health and immune function.

  • Lemon

    • Lemons are packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient that helps strengthen the immune system. The acidity also helps brighten the flavor of the soup and balance out the richness of the yogurt.

Expert Tips

  • Make Ahead

    • This soup is great for meal prep. It actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. You can easily store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Texture

    • If you prefer a smoother soup, you can strain it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any remaining solids. If you like it chunkier, you can pulse the soup a few more times in the blender to retain some texture.

  • Chill Properly

    • The key to a truly refreshing chilled soup is chilling it properly. Aim for at least 1 hour in the fridge for the best texture and flavor. You can even make it the night before and let it chill overnight for maximum coolness.

  • Adjust Consistency

    • If you prefer a thinner soup, add more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Some people like a more brothy soup, while others enjoy a thicker, almost dip-like texture.

Recipe Variations

While the classic chilled cucumber soup is a winner in itself, you can experiment with different ingredients to make this dish your own.

  • Avocado Twist

    • Add 1 ripe avocado to the blender for a creamy, slightly rich twist that adds healthy fats and even more silkiness.

  • Mint & Basil Infusion

    • Swap out the dill for fresh mint or basil for a different herbal flavor. Mint pairs beautifully with cucumber and adds a cooling element, while basil brings a more savory, slightly peppery note.

  • Spicy Kick

    • For those who like a little heat, add a sliced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the blender. The spicy contrast against the cool cucumber is a thrilling combination.

  • Buttermilk Variation

    • For a tangier soup, swap out some or all of the yogurt with buttermilk. It’ll give the soup a pleasant tartness while maintaining the creamy texture.

  • Nuts And Seeds

    • Add a handful of roasted sunflower seeds or almonds for added crunch and flavor. The nuts or seeds can be sprinkled on top for garnish or blended directly into the soup for extra richness.

Final Words

Chilled cucumber soup is one of those dishes that seems deceptively simple but is incredibly satisfying. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor-all while being super easy to prepare. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a quick summer meal, this recipe can become a go-to in your kitchen. And with the ability to tweak it to your personal tastes, it’s a versatile option that can be adjusted to match any flavor profile you’re craving.

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