As the sun reaches its zenith and the temperature soars, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing burst of a chilled soup to cool you down. I stumbled upon this Cucumber Gazpacho one sweltering afternoon when the idea of turning on the stove felt like a cruel joke. With just five minutes to spare, I blended together a symphony of fresh veggies and herbs, creating a silky smooth dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is in color.
This Cold Cucumber Soup isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty, effortlessly combining hydrating cucumbers, zesty lemon, and fragrant basil. Perfect for hot afternoons or inviting guests over, it’s vegan-friendly and packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice any time of day. So, grab your blender and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will not only refresh you but also redefine your summer culinary experience!
Why is Cold Cucumber Soup so refreshing?
Simplicity at its finest: With just five minutes of prep, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to impress.
Healthy & Hydrating: Packed with cucumbers and basil, this soup is low in calories yet high in hydration—perfect for hot summer days.
Vegan-Friendly: Everyone can enjoy it! This recipe caters to various dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
Chill & Serve: No oven, no hassle! Just blend, chill, and serve, making it ideal for those lazy afternoons.
Your Next Showstopper: Perfect as an appetizer or a light meal, this cold soup will wow your guests and leave them begging for the recipe.
For more summer-inspired dishes, check out our other refreshing recipes.
Cold Cucumber Soup Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to make this delightful, no-cook dish!
For the Soup
- Cucumbers – These swimmers are the star of the show, providing the refreshing base for your cold cucumber soup!
- Onion – A finely chopped onion adds depth and sweetness; choose sweet varieties for a milder flavor.
- Garlic – One clove, peeled and minced, supplies aromatic pungency, enhancing the soup’s overall taste.
- Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors; opt for organic for the best taste.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – 10-15 leaves enrich your soup with a fragrant herbal note; it’s that summer garden vibe!
- Natural Yogurt – A dollop adds creaminess and a tangy twist; swap it for plant-based yogurt for a vegan-friendly version.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Use 2-3 tablespoons of this fruity liquid gold for added richness.
- Salt – Enhances flavor balance and can be adjusted to your taste; just remember to keep it light!
- Cracked Black Pepper – A sprinkle adds a subtle kick and texture, awakening your palate.
Now you’re all set to whip up a refreshing Cold Cucumber Soup that’s as nourishing as it is delectable!
How to Make Cold Cucumber Soup
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Prepare: Start by cutting the cucumbers and onion into small, manageable chunks. This will help them blend smoothly, ensuring every sip of your soup is velvety and delightful.
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Blend: In a blender, combine the cucumbers, onion, garlic, lemon juice, basil, yogurt, olive oil, salt, and cracked black pepper. Add a splash of water if needed to help achieve a silky consistency. Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Strain: For an ultra-smooth texture, pour the mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl. This step will help you remove any heavy pulp for a refreshing sip that’s light on the palate.
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Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the soup for at least 1 hour. Chilling is essential for flavor and taste; it allows the ingredients to meld beautifully together.
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Serve: Once chilled, pour the cold cucumber soup into small bowls or cups, garnishing with thin cucumber slices or almond slivers. Add a drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of flavor if desired.
Optional: Sprinkle with additional herbs for a burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cold Cucumber Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these scrumptious twists that can elevate your cold cucumber soup experience!
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Avocado Boost: Add half an avocado for a creamy texture and a luscious flavor twist. It transforms your soup into an indulgent delight.
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Minty Freshness: Toss in some fresh mint leaves along with basil for a refreshing herbal punch that complements the cool cucumbers beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño for an unexpected warmth that brings a delightful heat to this chilled dish.
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Smoky Surprise: Add a dash of smoked paprika to introduce a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.
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Tangy Zest: Swap the lemon juice for lime juice for a zesty twist, creating a more tropical vibe that brightens your cold cucumber soup even further.
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Nutty Fun: Incorporate a tablespoon of tahini for a nutty addition that pairs well with the freshness of cucumber, adding depth and creaminess.
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Herb Explosion: Try mixing in additional herbs like dill or parsley. Their unique flavors transform the soup into a vibrant garden itself.
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Sun-dried Tomatoes: Blend in a few sun-dried tomatoes to add a burst of umami flavor and an eye-catching color contrast to your cold cucumber soup.
Let your taste buds lead the way and enjoy experimenting with these variations!
How to Store and Freeze Cold Cucumber Soup
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool before refrigerating to maintain its fresh flavor.
- Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
- Reheating: Cold Cucumber Soup is typically served chilled, so simply enjoy it straight from the fridge; if you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.
- Serving Tip: Always stir well before serving after storage, as separation may occur. Enjoy the refreshing taste of summer in every bowl!
What to Serve with Cold Cucumber Soup?
As warmer days beckon for light meals, pair this refreshing dish with sides that enhance its crisp, vibrant flavor.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or artisan bread is perfect for dipping, adding a lovely texture contrast to the smooth soup. It’s a pairing that simply invites you to savor every bite.
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Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette complements the soup’s freshness and adds a lovely crunch. Plus, the bright colors will brighten up your table!
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Grilled Veggies: The smoky flavors of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus offer a delightful contrast to the coolness of the gazpacho, making each bite a summer delight.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on sourdough or whole grain bread is a perfect pairing; the richness of the avocado harmonizes with the lighter flavors of your cold cucumber soup.
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Sparkling Water: Serve with chilled sparkling water infused with lemon or cucumber slices for a fizzy and refreshing drink that mirrors the soup’s taste.
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Fruit Sorbet: For a light dessert, consider a fruit sorbet; the refreshing sweetness of berry or lemon sorbet cleanses the palate beautifully after the crisp soup.
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Stuffed Avocados: Halved avocados stuffed with quinoa salad or chickpeas can bring a heartier element to your meal, while still allowing the cucumber soup to shine as a star dish.
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Caprese Skewers: Skewers with mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil are light, fresh, and mirror the flavors in the soup, providing a beautiful appetizer or accompaniment.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: These refreshing beverages will not only complement your meal beautifully but also keep you hydrated and refreshed on those hot summer days.
Helpful Tricks for Cold Cucumber Soup
• Cucumber Selection: Use small Spanish cucumbers for a firmer texture. Avoid watery English cucumbers if you want a thicker soup.
• Finely Chopped Onion: Ensure your onion is finely chopped to prevent overpowering flavors. Sweet onions can work wonders in balancing the taste.
• Skip the Peeling: Keep the cucumber skin on for maximum flavor and nutrients. Peeling them diminishes health benefits while adding texture.
• Chill Longer: For the best flavor, chill your cold cucumber soup for at least 1 hour. It enhances the taste and freshness, ensuring it’s incredibly refreshing.
• Yogurt Alternatives: If you’re keeping it vegan, swap natural yogurt for plant-based yogurt. This ensures every spoonful is smooth without dairy.
• Garnish Creatively: Elevate presentation with garnishes like microgreens or edible flowers. They make your cold cucumber soup as lovely as it is delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Cold Cucumber Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can chop your cucumbers and onion up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their crispness. The rest of the ingredients, like garlic and basil, can also be prepped and combined right before blending to ensure maximum flavor. To further enhance your meal prep, blend all ingredients and refrigerate the soup for up to 3 days. Just remember to stir before serving, as some separation may occur. This way, you’ll have a refreshing, nutritious soup ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice, making your busy days much lighter.
Cold Cucumber Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of cucumbers should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using small Spanish cucumbers as they provide a firmer consistency. If you can’t find them, English cucumbers can work in a pinch, but be mindful that they may yield a slightly more watery soup due to their higher water content.
How should I store leftovers of Cold Cucumber Soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure that the soup is cooled thoroughly before sealing it away to keep that fresh taste intact. It’s perfect for meal prep during hot summer days!
Can I freeze Cold Cucumber Soup?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. To do this, pour the soup into an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight. Give it a good stir before serving to revive its delightful consistency.
What should I do if my soup is too watery?
If you find your Cold Cucumber Soup is too thin for your liking, don’t worry! You can thicken it by blending in a few more cucumbers or incorporate a small amount of boiled potato for a creamy texture. Alternatively, strain it less during the preparation process to retain more of the pulp, which adds body.
Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
This Cold Cucumber Soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it friendly for various dietary needs. However, if you or your guests have allergies, be cautious with ingredients like natural yogurt and olive oil; substitute with plant-based or nut-free alternatives as needed. Always consult ingredient labels to ensure safety for everyone.
How can I make this soup more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your Cold Cucumber Soup, consider adding a pinch of cumin for warmth, or mixing in some diced avocado for creaminess. You can also explore herbs like dill or parsley for a different twist, or add a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick!
Chill Out with This Irresistible Cold Cucumber Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare: Start by cutting the cucumbers and onion into small, manageable chunks.
- Blend: In a blender, combine the cucumbers, onion, garlic, lemon juice, basil, yogurt, olive oil, salt, and cracked black pepper. Add a splash of water if needed. Blend until smooth.
- Strain: Pour the mixture through a fine sieve into a bowl for a smoother texture.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the soup for at least 1 hour.
- Serve: Once chilled, pour the soup into bowls, garnishing with cucumber slices or almond slivers.