Imagine a hot summer day, the sun blazing down like it’s auditioning for a role in a superhero movie. You’re sweating bullets while trying to enjoy your lunch, but all you want is something cool and refreshing. Enter the star of our culinary show: Chilled Cucumber Soup! This delightful dish is like a spa day for your taste buds – light, refreshing, and oh-so-satisfying. Picture biting into crisp cucumbers, blended with creamy yogurt and zesty herbs, offering a flavor explosion that dances on your palate.
Now, let me whisk you away to my grandmother’s kitchen. Each summer, she’d whip up her famous Chilled Cucumber Soup while we lounged by the pool. I can still hear her laughter mingling with the sound of the blender whirring away. The aroma of fresh dill would waft through the air, promising a taste of heaven. It was more than just soup; it was a family tradition, served alongside stories that made us giggle until our bellies hurt. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or just trying to beat the heat, this soup is your new best friend!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chilled Cucumber Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors creates a refreshing experience that will leave you wanting more
- Its vibrant green color makes it visually stunning on any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or a light main dish!
I remember serving this to friends during a summer cookout; their eyes lit up after the first sip!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Cucumbers: Opt for firm cucumbers; they provide the best crunch and flavor for your soup.
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Plain Greek Yogurt: A creamy base that adds richness without overpowering the cucumber’s freshness.
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Dill: Fresh dill is ideal for its aromatic qualities; it elevates the soup’s flavor profile beautifully.
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Garlic Clove: A smidge of garlic adds depth; adjust according to your preference for boldness.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up flavors and balances creaminess with acidity.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together harmoniously.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Get ready to create this refreshing masterpiece step by step!
Prep Your Veggies: Wash your cucumbers thoroughly under running water. Peel if desired; leaving some skin adds beautiful color and texture.
Blend It Up!: In a blender, combine chopped cucumbers, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Season to Perfection: Taste your mixture and add salt and pepper gradually until it reaches your desired flavor balance.
Chill Out!: Transfer your soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Garnish and Serve!: Ladle the chilled soup into bowls and garnish with additional dill or diced cucumbers for visual appeal before serving.
Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Chilled Cucumber Soup as it refreshes you from head to toe!
You Must Know
- Chilled Cucumber Soup is a refreshing delight, perfect for hot summer days
- The creamy texture and zesty flavor make it a crowd-pleaser
- Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up excess cucumbers from your garden or the grocery store
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by blending the cucumbers, yogurt, and garlic until smooth. Chill for at least two hours before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap Greek yogurt with sour cream for a tangy twist. Add dill or mint for an extra burst of fresh flavor that elevates this dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat if you prefer a warm version, but chilled is best.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the creamiest texture, use full-fat Greek yogurt
- Avoid over-blending to keep some cucumber chunks for added freshness
- Serve with toasted bread or croutons for delightful crunch
I remember the first time I made Chilled Cucumber Soup for a summer picnic; everyone raved about how refreshing it was! It became an instant favorite among friends and family.
FAQ
What type of cucumbers are best for Chilled Cucumber Soup?
Use English cucumbers as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds than regular ones.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make it a day in advance for even better flavor development before serving.
Is Chilled Cucumber Soup suitable for vegans?
Yes! Simply replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Chilled Cucumber Soup
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Chilled Cucumber Soup is the ultimate summer dish that combines refreshing cucumbers, creamy Greek yogurt, and zesty herbs for a cool culinary experience. Perfectly blended into a smooth consistency with hints of garlic and lemon, this soup is not just light on the palate but also a feast for the eyes with its vibrant green color. Ideal for garden parties or casual lunches, this easy-to-make recipe will make you feel refreshed and satisfied, even on the hottest days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cucumbers, chopped
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and chop cucumbers; peel if desired.
- In a blender, combine chopped cucumbers, Greek yogurt, dill, garlic, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour to chill.
- Serve in bowls garnished with extra dill or diced cucumbers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
