Cold cucumber soup is a refreshing and healthy dish, perfect for hot summer days or when you crave something light yet satisfying. This chilled soup features the natural crispiness of cucumbers, combined with creamy yogurt and fresh herbs, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a light meal, cold cucumber soup is easy to prepare and is sure to impress your guests or family.
Why We Love This Cold Cucumber Soup Recipe
This cold cucumber soup recipe is a summertime favorite due to its simplicity and vibrant taste. The freshness of the cucumbers mixed with the tanginess of yogurt makes it not only delicious but also nourishing. Add to that the delightful fragrance of dill and a splash of lemon juice, and you have a dish that speaks of summer. It’s also versatile—you can serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light lunch. Plus, it’s extremely easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients while still packing a punch in flavor!
Ingredients about Cold Cucumber Soup
To make this refreshing cold cucumber soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy, flavorful dish that is bound to become a household staple. You can find these ingredients at your local grocery store, making this recipe an accessible option for everyone.
How to Make Cold Cucumber Soup Directions
Making cold cucumber soup is as simple as blending ingredients together. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by peeling and chopping the cucumbers. This makes them easier to blend and releases their refreshing taste into the soup.
- In a blender, combine the chopped cucumbers with the plain yogurt. This creamy base will give your soup a smooth texture.
- Next, add the vegetable broth. This will help you achieve the right consistency without making the soup too thick.
- Pour in the olive oil for a hint of richness, adding a lovely mouthfeel to the dish.
- Toss in the chopped dill; this herb is the hero of the soup, adding a fresh and aromatic essence.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice for brightness, elevating the flavors to another level.
- Blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend for a shorter time.
- Once blended, taste your soup and add salt and pepper according to your preference. This step will enhance all the sub-flavors and bring the dish together.
- After seasoning, transfer the soup to a bowl or container and cover it. Refrigerate your cold cucumber soup for at least one hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- When you’re ready to serve, give the soup a quick stir and pour it into bowls. You can garnish with a sprinkle of additional dill if desired.
Now you have a delightful bowl of cold cucumber soup that’s ready to cool you down!
How to Serve Cold Cucumber Soup
Serving cold cucumber soup is straightforward, and you can elevate it based on your preferences. Pour the chilled soup into individual bowls or cups, allowing your guests to enjoy their servings easily. You can add garnishes like a sprig of fresh dill, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a few finely chopped cucumbers on top for added texture.
Pair this soup with crusty bread or some pita chips for a complete meal. For an extra kick, consider serving it alongside a light salad, making it perfect for a summer lunch or a vibrant dinner. Hot weather or not, this cooling soup serves well as an appetizer at gatherings or picnics.
Expert Tips: Cold Cucumber Soup
Here are some expert tips to take your cold cucumber soup to the next level:
- Select Fresh Cucumbers: Choose firm, fresh cucumbers as they will be the star ingredient of your dish. Go for organic cucumbers for a more robust flavor.
- Adjust the Consistency: You can thin out the soup by adding more vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter soup or keep it thick for a heartier dish.
- Yogurt Variations: While plain yogurt is essential for the creaminess of the soup, you can experiment with Greek yogurt for an even thicker texture or dairy-free yogurt if you need a vegan option.
- Feel Free to Experiment: You can incorporate other herbs like mint for additional freshness or even add a hint of garlic for extra depth.
- Chill it Right: Giving your soup sufficient time to chill enhances the flavors. Don’t skip this step!
How to Store Cold Cucumber Soup
If you have leftovers or want to prepare the soup ahead of time, storing it is easy. Place the soup in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Cold cucumber soup can last for about 3-4 days in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, give it a good stir as ingredients may separate. If you find it too thick after storage, add a splash of vegetable broth to regain that desired consistency.
Variation of Cold Cucumber Soup
There are numerous ways you can switch up this cold cucumber soup to keep your meals interesting:
- Spicy Kick: Add a small amount of diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a spicy twist.
- Creamy Avocado: Blend in half an avocado for a rich, creamy texture while simultaneously boosting the nutrition factor.
- Fruit Infusion: Incorporate watermelon or cantaloupe for a sweet twist that complements the cucumber nicely. Simply add these fruits when you blend the main ingredients.
- Nutty Flavor: Toss in a tablespoon of tahini or almond butter for added richness and a nutty flavor.
- Herb Variety: Swap dill for other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to create a different flavor profile.
With these variations, you can tailor the cold cucumber soup to fit any taste preference!
FAQ
What is cold cucumber soup?
Cold cucumber soup is a chilled dish made primarily with blended cucumbers, yogurt, and various seasonings, typically served as a refreshing appetizer or light meal.
How long should I chill the cold cucumber soup?
It’s best to chill the soup for at least one hour before serving to enhance the flavors and achieve the ideal temperature.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare cold cucumber soup a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What can I serve with cold cucumber soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, pita chips, or a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal.
Is cold cucumber soup healthy?
Absolutely! Cold cucumber soup is low in calories, hydrating, and full of vitamins. The addition of yogurt boosts its nutritional value, making it both delicious and healthy.
Cold Cucumber Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped Select firm, fresh cucumbers for best flavor.
- 1 cup plain yogurt Greek yogurt can be used for a thicker texture.
- 1 cup vegetable broth Adjust consistency as needed.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds richness to the soup.
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped Dill enhances the soup's fresh flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice Provides brightness to the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste Enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Instructions
Preparation
- Peel and chop the cucumbers.
- In a blender, combine the chopped cucumbers with the plain yogurt.
- Add the vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
- Pour in the olive oil.
- Toss in the chopped dill.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
- Transfer the soup to a bowl or container and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with additional dill if desired.
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