As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, there’s nothing more refreshing than a chilled soup to keep you cool. This Chilled Cucumber & Basil Soup is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also brings together the crisp, clean flavor of cucumbers with the vibrant, aromatic notes of fresh basil. If you’re looking for a way to use up the cucumbers from your garden, this recipe is a perfect solution!
A Simple, No-Cook Recipe
One of the best things about this soup is how effortless it is to prepare. No stove, no fuss—just a blender and a few fresh ingredients. With cucumbers, Greek yogurt, basil, lemon, and a touch of honey, you’ve got a creamy, tangy, and refreshing dish ready to serve in under 10 minutes (before chilling time). You can make it ahead and have it chilling in the fridge, waiting for you whenever hunger strikes on those hot summer days.
Health Benefits of Cucumbers
Cucumbers aren’t just delicious; they’re also packed with health benefits! Here’s why you should embrace them in your summer meals:
- Hydration: With a high water content (about 95%), cucumbers are a fantastic way to stay hydrated, especially on hot days when you need a little extra moisture.
- Low in Calories: They’re incredibly low in calories, making them a great addition to any wellness-focused diet.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cucumbers contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which help combat free radicals and reduce inflammation in the body.
- Good for Skin: Known for their cooling properties, cucumbers are also great for skin health, as they can reduce puffiness and promote hydration.
Serving Suggestions
While this soup is refreshing on its own, here are some ideas to elevate it and make it a full meal:
- Serve it with Grilled Chicken or Tofu: For a more substantial meal, pair it with grilled chicken or tofu. The cool soup balances perfectly with the savory, smoky flavors of grilled protein.
- Add a Side Salad: A crisp, green salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the soup.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: If you’re craving something hearty, serve the soup with some crusty bread or pita. You could even add a smear of hummus for extra flavor.
- As a Starter: This soup makes a wonderful first course at a summer dinner party. Its light and refreshing qualities will leave your guests feeling satisfied but not overly full, perfect for setting the stage for the main course.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cucumber, chopped
- 1½ cups plain whole milk Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh mint, for garnish
- Roasted sunflower seeds, for garnish
Directions:
- In a blender, combine all the ingredients—cucumbers, Greek yogurt, basil, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic salt, honey, and black pepper.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Chill for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to cool.
- When ready to serve, ladle into bowls. Drizzle with extra olive oil, add freshly ground black pepper, and garnish with fresh mint leaves and roasted sunflower seeds.
- Serve cold and enjoy the refreshing, creamy goodness!
Final Thoughts
This Chilled Cucumber & Basil Soup is a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of your summer garden. It’s easy, refreshing, and healthy—a perfect dish for those warm, sunny days. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or pairing it with a meal, this soup is sure to become a favorite summer go-to.
Enjoy the simplicity, enjoy the flavors, and most of all, enjoy the summer!
