If you're looking for a refreshing and light dish to enjoy on hot summer days, chilled cucumber and yogurt soup is the perfect choice. This chilled soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, offering a cool escape from the heat. With just a few simple ingredients like cucumber, Greek yogurt, and your favorite herbs, you can whip up this delicious starter or side dish in no time.
Imagine serving this cold soup as an appetizer at your next gathering. It’s light, creamy, and full of fresh flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can also enjoy it as a quick and healthy snack that’s both hydrating and nutritious.
Whether you're hosting a summer party or just want a simple dish to cool down, chilled cucumber and yogurt soup is a must-try. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your summer menu.
Table of Contents
Ingredients Overview
Chilled cucumber and yogurt soup is refreshing and simple to make. Understanding the key ingredients will help you create a delicious and cooling soup, perfect for hot days.
Primary Ingredients
The main stars of this soup are cucumbers and yogurt. You can use English, Persian, or hothouse cucumbers. Ensure they are fresh and cool. Greek yogurt is preferred for its thick texture and rich flavor, but you can also use plain yogurt. These ingredients provide the base, blending smoothness and freshness into the soup. Lemon juice adds a zesty tang, balancing the creaminess of the yogurt. Other essentials include olive oil for richness and garlic for a hint of spice.
Herbs and Seasonings
Herbs bring depth and complexity to the soup's flavor. Dill is a classic choice, offering a fresh and slightly tangy taste. Mint adds a cool and refreshing note that pairs well with the cucumbers. Parsley brings a mild bitterness, while tarragon and basil can be used for a slight sweetness. Chives offer a light onion flavor. Seasoning is crucial; use kosher salt and pepper to taste. Adjust these according to your preference to enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Garnishes and Additions
Garnishing adds a finishing touch that elevates the soup visually and gastronomically. Save a few slices of cucumber and herbs like dill and mint to place on top before serving. This not only looks appealing but also adds an extra burst of flavor. A drizzle of olive oil can enrich the taste further. Some recipes suggest using shallots or red onions for added crunch and sharpness. These additions should be used sparingly to maintain the soup's delicate balance. If you like a bit of sweetness, add a small amount of sugar or maple syrup.
Preparation and Cooking Instructions
Making Chilled Cucumber and Yogurt Soup is simple and quick. You'll prep the ingredients, blend them, and then refrigerate before serving.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients: cucumbers, Greek yogurt, herbs (like dill and mint), garlic, scallions, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Skin and dice the cucumbers. Reserve about ⅓ cup of diced cucumber for garnish later.
Next, finely chop some red onion if you want an extra kick of flavor. Squeeze fresh lemon juice and measure it out.
Make sure your herbs are fresh and finely chopped. Prepping everything in advance makes the actual blending quick and easy.
Blending Techniques
Use a blender or food processor for this step. Place the cucumbers (excluding the reserved garnish), garlic, herbs, and lemon juice into the blender. Add some olive oil and Greek yogurt.
Blend the ingredients until smooth.
Check the texture. If it's too thick, you can add a bit more yogurt or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. You may also add a bit more chopped herbs or lemon juice as you see fit.
Refrigeration and Serving
Transfer the pureed mixture into a bowl. Cover and place it in the fridge for at least one hour. This helps to blend the flavors together.
When ready to serve, stir the soup well. Pour into bowls and garnish with the reserved diced cucumber and some more chopped herbs.
If you like, you can add a drizzle of olive oil on top.
Serve the soup chilled. This makes it a refreshing dish, especially on a hot day.
Total prep time is about 10–15 minutes, with additional time for chilling in the fridge. Enjoy your homemade Chilled Cucumber and Yogurt Soup!
Pairings and Serving Suggestions
Complement your chilled cucumber and yogurt soup with the perfect main courses, beverages, and seasonal accompaniments to elevate your meal experience.
Suitable Main Courses
Consider pairing the soup with a light salad featuring fresh herbs like flat-leaf parsley or mint sprigs. Another great option is grilled fish, such as salmon or tilapia, seasoned with white pepper and lemon, which balances the coolness of the soup.
For a vegetarian option, try a hearty quinoa salad with chopped walnuts and red onion garnish. You might also enjoy a side of garlic bread, which provides a warm, crispy contrast to the cool soup, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Beverage Pairings
Light, crisp beverages are ideal. Opt for a refreshing iced tea with a hint of lemon or mint. If you prefer something sparkling, a light soda or sparkling water with a slice of cucumber can be very refreshing.
For an alcoholic option, consider a chilled Pinot Grigio or a glass of rosé. These wines are light and won't overpower the subtle flavors of the cucumber and yogurt soup. Gin and tonic garnished with a slice of cucumber also make a delicious and fitting match.
Seasonal Accompaniments
During spring, take advantage of the fresh Persian cucumbers and fresh herbs available. A side of quick pickled vegetables like radishes or carrots can add a tangy bite to your meal.
For a light dinner in the warmer months, serving the soup with seasonal fruits like melon or berries can keep the meal light and refreshing. You can also try spring rolls filled with crisp veggies and herbs for a crunchy, tasty side.
How to Make Chilled Cucumber and Yogurt Soup
Ingredients:
- 3 cups hothouse or Persian cucumbers, skin on, deseeded, and roughly chopped
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup red onion, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, fronds only
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment:
- Blender or immersion blender
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Bowl
- Airtight container for chilling
Instructions:
Prepare the cucumbers: Peel and deseed the cucumbers, and chop them roughly. Reserve a few slices for garnish.
Combine ingredients: In a blender, add the chopped cucumbers, Greek yogurt, red onion, dill, olive oil, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
Blend until smooth: Puree the mixture until you get a smooth consistency. If you are using an immersion blender, combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and blend.
Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to the mixture, adjusting according to your taste.
Chill the soup: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour.
Serve: Once chilled, pour the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved cucumber slices and a few sprigs of dill.
Recipe Notes and Tips:
- You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different flavor.
- Feel free to add other herbs like mint or parsley for extra freshness.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Enjoy your refreshing Chilled Cucumber and Yogurt Soup!
Nutrients and Health Benefits
Nutritional Values per Serving (2 cups):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Vitamin C | 25% of daily value |
| Calcium | 20% of daily value |
| Iron | 4% of daily value |
Chilled cucumber and yogurt soup is packed with essential nutrients. Cucumber provides hydration and fiber, aiding in digestion. Greek yogurt offers protein and calcium, which are good for your bones.
Garlic has antioxidants that support your immune system. Lemon juice adds a dose of Vitamin C, boosting your immune health further.
Eating this soup in the summer is beneficial. It is refreshing and cooling, helping you stay hydrated on hot days. The soup is light yet nutritious, making it a great choice for a hot afternoon or as a starter.
By including fresh herbs like mint, dill, or parsley, you add more vitamins and a refreshing taste. These herbs have their own health benefits, such as supporting digestion and reducing inflammation.
Enjoying this soup helps you avoid heavy, calorie-dense foods while still providing your body with necessary nutrients and keeping you full.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chilled cucumber and yogurt soup is refreshing and perfect for hot days. Learn about ingredients, suitable herbs, dietary substitutions, and more.
What ingredients are required for making chilled cucumber and yogurt soup?
You will need cucumbers, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Garlic and herbs like dill and mint add extra flavor.
What herbs work best in chilled cucumber and yogurt soup?
Dill and mint are popular choices, but cilantro, basil, and parsley can also be used. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
Can sour cream be used in place of yogurt for making chilled cucumber soup?
Yes, sour cream can be substituted for yogurt. It will give the soup a richer and tangier flavor.
What can I use instead of yogurt for a dairy-free version?
You can use coconut yogurt or a plain, unsweetened, dairy-free yogurt alternative. Ensure that it has a thick consistency for the best result.
How do I prevent the soup from becoming too watery?
Seed the cucumbers before blending to remove excess water. You can also strain the cucumber after blending to ensure a thicker soup.
Is chilled cucumber and yogurt soup considered a healthy dish?
Yes, it is low in calories and packed with vitamins from the cucumbers and protein from the yogurt. Using Greek yogurt can increase the protein content.
Can I serve chilled cucumber and yogurt soup as a main dish?
Though it is commonly served as a starter, you can serve larger portions as a main dish, especially in the summer.
How does Mediterranean cucumber soup differ from the traditional cucumber and yogurt version?
Mediterranean cucumber soup often includes additional ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and specific herbs such as mint or dill to enhance its flavor profile.
Can cucumber soup be served hot, and if so, how does the recipe differ?
Yes, cucumber soup can be served hot. For a hot version, you often cook the cucumbers and other ingredients before blending. Usually, you would add a broth or stock.
How long does chilled cucumber and yogurt soup last in the refrigerator?
You can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again.
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