As the warm days of summer roll in, your craving for refreshing and light meals grows. Soups might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but they can be a delightful option even in the heat. From chilled gazpachos to garden vegetable broths, summer soups offer a blend of flavors that suit the season perfectly.
Discover a variety of summer soups that are easy to make and perfect for any time of the day. These recipes use fresh, seasonal ingredients that provide both nourishment and a burst of flavor. Get ready to explore new ways to enjoy soup this summer.
1) Chilled Avocado Soup
Chilled avocado soup is perfect for hot summer days. It’s refreshing, creamy, and easy to make. You’ll love the smooth texture and the fresh taste.
Start by blending avocados, cucumber, and yogurt. These ingredients make the base of your soup silky and rich.
Add olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for flavor. Blend again until smooth.
Chill the soup in the fridge for a few hours. This step is important for achieving the perfect cool taste.
Before serving, garnish with sliced cucumbers, parsley, and chopped red bell peppers. This adds a nice crunch and extra flavor.
Enjoy this soup as a light lunch or a starter for dinner. It’s a great way to stay cool and still enjoy something delicious.
2) Gazpacho Andaluz
Gazpacho Andaluz is a refreshing, cold soup perfect for hot summer days. Originating from the Andalusian region of Spain, this dish is packed with fresh vegetables and bold flavors.
To make this soup, you will need ripe tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Start by blending the tomatoes first, as they have the most juice. This helps the blender combine the ingredients smoothly.
Next, add the chopped bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Continue blending until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Season your gazpacho with salt, a generous teaspoon of sherry vinegar, and a quarter cup of extra virgin olive oil. Add three-quarters of a cup of cold water to achieve the perfect consistency.
For extra freshness, transfer the gazpacho into a glass pitcher, cover it, and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. Serve it chilled, and enjoy the burst of summery flavors.
3) Cucumber and Mint Soup
Cucumber and Mint Soup is a refreshing and simple dish, perfect for hot summer days.
Start by peeling and seeding cucumbers, then chop them into chunks. In a blender, combine the cucumbers with plain yogurt, chopped shallots, fresh mint leaves, and lemon juice.
Add a little olive oil for smoothness and season with salt and pepper. Blend the mixture until it’s completely smooth.
Serve the soup chilled for the best taste. You can garnish it with additional mint leaves or a drizzle of olive oil. This soup is light and cool, ideal for when you need something not too heavy but still satisfying.
4) Cold Greek Yogurt Soup
Cold Greek Yogurt Soup is perfect for hot summer days. It’s refreshing, creamy, and easy to make. This soup combines fresh cucumbers, Greek yogurt, and some herbs for a delicious flavor.
To start, you need 3 cups of chopped cucumbers. Leave the skin on but remove the seeds. Chop the cucumbers roughly.
Add 1 cup of Greek yogurt to a blender along with the cucumbers. Throw in ⅓ cup of roughly chopped red onion and 2 minced garlic cloves.
For herbs, use 1 tablespoon of fresh dill fronds. A tablespoon of lemon juice adds a bit of tanginess. Blend everything together until smooth.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil for a silky texture. If you don’t have a blender, an immersion blender will work too.
Serve the soup chilled. It’s excellent as a starter or even as a light meal. Decorate with extra dill or cucumber slices for a nice presentation.
Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to cool down while still enjoying a flavorful dish.
5) Watermelon Gazpacho
Watermelon gazpacho is a refreshing summer soup that combines sweet and savory flavors. This cold soup is perfect for hot days and offers a unique twist on traditional gazpacho.
To make watermelon gazpacho, start by blending chopped watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, and garlic. You can also add red and green peppers for extra flavor.
Add a splash of vinegar and a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
Once everything is blended until smooth, chill the soup for a few hours. This helps the flavors meld together.
You can also add finely chopped vegetables like onions, cilantro, or jalapeño for a bit of texture and a mild kick.
Serve your watermelon gazpacho cold, and enjoy its light, refreshing taste on a warm summer day.
6) Creamy Vichyssoise
Creamy Vichyssoise is a classic cold soup that is perfect for hot summer days. This smooth and elegant soup combines leeks, onions, potatoes, and chicken broth to create a delightful flavor.
First, melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the leeks and onions, and cook until they become soft and translucent. This should take about 5-10 minutes.
Next, add diced potatoes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, and stir well. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
Once the mixture is cooked, remove it from the heat and purée until smooth. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender. Add about 1 to 1 ½ cups of cream to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating it for at least 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, pour the chilled Vichyssoise into bowls. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or chopped chives for extra flavor. Enjoy this refreshing and creamy soup as a light meal or an appetizer on warm summer days.
7) Cold Mango Soup
Cold Mango Soup is a refreshing choice for hot summer days. Start by puréeing ripe mangoes in a blender. Add enough milk to ensure the mixture blends well. If you have a large batch, work in smaller portions to keep it smooth.
Next, gradually mix in some yogurt and coconut milk. This gives the soup a creamy texture. For a spicy kick, add a bit of chili powder and cayenne pepper. Adjust the seasoning to match your taste.
Chill the soup in the refrigerator before serving. This really enhances the flavor and makes it more refreshing. Serve it cold, garnished with fresh mint or a slice of lime. Enjoy the delicious blend of sweet mango and creamy ingredients.
8) Pea and Mint Soup
Pea and mint soup is a refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer. It combines the sweetness of peas with the coolness of fresh mint. This soup is not only tasty but also very easy to make.
Start by heating some olive oil in a pot over low heat. Add finely diced onions and minced garlic. Cook them slowly until the onions turn translucent. Be careful not to brown them.
Next, add vegetable broth and fresh mint leaves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the peas. If you’re using frozen peas, let the mixture return to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes.
The soup is ready when the peas are tender. You can blend it to a smooth consistency using an immersion blender or keep it chunky if you prefer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For a bit of extra flavor, you can add crispy bacon as a topping. Crumble a few strips over the soup for a delightful crunch. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer.
9) Tomato and Basil Gazpacho
Tomato and Basil Gazpacho is the perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. This chilled soup is fresh, light, and incredibly flavorful.
Start by prepping your vegetables. You will need ripe tomatoes, a cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and garlic. Chop each ingredient into chunks to make blending easier.
Place all the ingredients into a blender. Add a generous splash of olive oil, a touch of sherry vinegar, and some salt and pepper. For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh basil leaves.
Blend everything until smooth. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit of cold water to reach your preferred consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making the soup even more delicious.
Serve your Tomato and Basil Gazpacho in bowls, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and a few basil leaves for garnish. This vibrant soup not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning on a summer table.
Enjoy your refreshing bowl of gazpacho as a starter or a main dish. It’s a simple yet delightful option for any summer meal.
10) Strawberry Cucumber Soup
Strawberry Cucumber Soup is a refreshing choice for hot summer days. This chilled soup combines the sweetness of strawberries with the coolness of cucumbers, making it a delightful treat.
You start by blending fresh strawberries and cucumbers until smooth. Add a touch of lemon juice for a bit of tang.
Mix in a small amount of honey to sweeten, depending on your preference. For added creaminess, you can stir in a little Greek yogurt.
Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This lets the flavors meld together nicely.
Before serving, garnish with thin cucumber slices and a sprig of mint. You might also add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top for a nice touch.
Serve in small bowls or cups. This soup is not only tasty but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors.
Enjoy this Strawberry Cucumber Soup as a light appetizer or a refreshing snack. It’s perfect for summer picnics or parties.
11) Cold Beet Borscht
Cold Beet Borscht is a refreshing soup perfect for hot summer days. It is made with beets, which give it a vibrant red color. You can also add cucumbers, scallions, and fresh dill for extra flavor. This soup is traditionally served cold, providing a cooling effect.
To make Cold Beet Borscht, you will need boiled beets, which you can grate. Add them to a pot with some water or buttermilk. You can also add lemon juice and sugar for a balanced taste.
Once you have combined the ingredients, let the soup chill in the refrigerator for several hours. This helps the flavors meld together. When ready to serve, you can top it with a dollop of sour cream and some chopped dill.
Cold Beet Borscht is not only delicious, but it is also nutritious. Beets are rich in vitamins and minerals, making this soup a healthy choice. Enjoy it as a light lunch or a starter for your summer meals.
12) Carrot and Ginger Soup
Carrot and Ginger Soup is a delightful and warming dish that’s perfect for summer. You can enjoy it either hot or chilled, depending on your preference. The combination of fresh carrots and ginger provides a refreshing and slightly spicy flavor.
To start, you’ll need fresh carrots, ginger, and onion. Sauté these ingredients together until they soften. You can use either an Instant Pot, a regular pot, or even roast the vegetables in the oven.
Using vegetable broth or water makes a great base. Bring everything to a boil, and let it simmer until the carrots are fully tender. This usually takes around 20-30 minutes.
For added depth of flavor, you can include garlic, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Once all the vegetables are tender, blend the mixture until smooth.
You can adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes. If you’re aiming for a creamy texture, a splash of coconut milk can be a great addition.
This soup is versatile and can be adapted to suit various diets, including vegan and paleo. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed throughout the week.
13) Pineapple Cucumber Gazpacho
Looking for a refreshing soup to beat the summer heat? Pineapple Cucumber Gazpacho is a great choice. This cold soup combines the sweetness of pineapple with the crispness of cucumber.
To start, you need fresh pineapple and cucumber. Cut them into chunks and add them to a blender or food processor.
Blend for a short time, then add lime juice and cilantro for extra flavor. If you like a bit of heat, add a seeded and diced jalapeño.
Next, blend the ingredients to your desired texture. Some prefer it smooth, while others like a bit of chunkiness. You can use an immersion blender or a regular blender.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings. Add more pineapple juice for sweetness or more salt if needed. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Serve your Pineapple Cucumber Gazpacho cold. It’s a light and tasty way to enjoy the season’s fresh produce. Enjoy it as a starter or a light lunch on a hot day.
14) Chilled Pea and Ham Soup
Chilled Pea and Ham Soup is a refreshing dish perfect for hot summer days. It’s both savory and satisfying, combining the sweetness of peas with the smoky flavor of ham.
To prepare this soup, start by cooking peas in a pot with vegetable or chicken broth until they are tender.
Then blend the peas until smooth and let them chill in the fridge.
While the pea mixture cools, prepare the ham. Dice it into small cubes and lightly sauté in a pan to bring out its smoky flavor.
Once the soup is chilled, add the ham pieces. You can also add a touch of cream for extra richness.
Garnish with mint or chives for a fresh finish. This soup can be served in small bowls or cups.
It’s a great starter for any summer meal.
15) Cantaloupe Soup
Cantaloupe soup is a refreshing choice for hot summer days. You’ll need ripe cantaloupe, orange juice, yogurt, and honey.
Start by peeling, seeding, and cubing the cantaloupe. Blend it until smooth. Add orange juice, yogurt, and honey to taste. Blend again to mix it well.
For a bit of zest, consider adding a splash of lime juice. Chill the soup before serving for the best flavor.
You can also garnish with fresh mint or a small dollop of yogurt. This adds a touch of elegance and enhances the flavors.
This soup is light, healthy, and easy to make. It’s a perfect addition to your summer menu.
16) Cold Asparagus Soup
Cold asparagus soup is a refreshing dish for hot summer days. It starts with fresh asparagus, which gives the soup a vibrant green color and light flavor. You also need some onions and garlic for a bit of depth.
Begin by cooking the onions and garlic until they are soft but not brown. Then add chopped asparagus and a potato to thicken the soup. Pour in vegetable broth, and let it simmer.
Once the vegetables are tender, blend the mixture until smooth. After blending, chill the soup in the refrigerator. Serve it cold, garnished with a bit of olive oil or a slice of lemon.
For extra flavor, you can add fresh herbs like tarragon or dill. These herbs will make the soup taste even fresher. This soup is not only delicious but also a healthy and light meal option.
17) Lemongrass Coconut Soup
Lemongrass Coconut Soup is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for summer. The combination of lemongrass and coconut milk gives it a unique taste.
Start by heating some oil in a large pot. Add sliced onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir and cook until they become fragrant.
Next, add chopped lemongrass and carrots to the pot. Cook for a few more minutes to release their flavors.
Pour in coconut milk and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil. After it boils, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
You can add optional ingredients like red pepper or mushrooms for extra texture. If you want a smoother soup, blend the mixture using an immersion blender or transfer it to a blender in batches.
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra zest, add a splash of lime juice before serving.
This soup can be enjoyed either hot or cold, making it versatile for any weather. Whether you serve it as a starter or a main course, it is sure to be a hit at your summer gatherings.
18) Cilantro Lime Soup
Cilantro Lime Soup is a refreshing and flavorful option for a light summer meal. This soup combines fresh cilantro, lime juice, and chicken for a vibrant and tangy taste.
Begin by heating some oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Sauté chopped onions and garlic until they are soft. Then, add some chili powder to the mix for a hint of spice.
Add pieces of chicken and cook them for a few minutes. Next, pour in chicken broth, canned tomatoes, and spices like cumin and oregano. Allow it to simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors meld together.
Shred the cooked chicken with two forks and return it to the pot. Finally, add fresh cilantro and lime juice to the soup. Stir well to combine and serve hot.
This soup can be garnished with additional fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or even some crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch. It’s best enjoyed on a warm day when you want something light yet satisfying.
19) Cold Corn Soup
Cold corn soup is a refreshing way to enjoy sweet corn during summer. You start by making corn stock. Cut the leftover cobs in half and place them in a large pot with water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Strain the stock, and you should have about 2 quarts.
To make the soup, you’ll need fresh corn kernels. Saute the corn with some onions and garlic until tender. Blend the cooked corn mixture with the corn stock until smooth. Chill the soup in the fridge for a few hours.
Serve your cold corn soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro. You can also add a dash of cream or a swirl of yogurt for added richness. It’s a simple yet delicious way to stay cool and enjoy summer’s bounty.
20) Honeydew Melon Soup
Honeydew Melon Soup is a refreshing and easy option for hot summer days. Start by peeling and cubing the honeydew melon.
Blend the melon cubes with fresh mint, basil, and a splash of lime juice. A bit of sea salt helps bring out the flavors. For an extra twist, some recipes add a touch of ginger or cayenne pepper.
Once blended, chill the soup in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serve the soup in bowls or ramekins. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf and a slice of lime for a touch of color. Enjoy this light, fruity soup as a starter or a refreshing snack.
Health Benefits of Summer Soups
Summer soups are not only refreshing but also packed with essential nutrients and can keep you hydrated. They provide an excellent way to include more vegetables in your diet and help you stay cool during hot months.
Nutritional Value
Summer soups often include a variety of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and corn. These ingredients are high in vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene, which support your immune system and skin health.
Adding greens like spinach and kale boosts your intake of fiber, iron, and calcium. Fiber aids digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Many summer soups also contain herbs like mint and basil, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Protein can be added through ingredients like beans, lentils, and yogurt. For instance, a chilled yogurt-based soup can provide probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Using a mix of colorful vegetables ensures you get a wide range of phytonutrients, promoting overall well-being.
Hydration and Cooling
Staying hydrated is crucial in the summer, and soups can be an enjoyable way to increase your fluid intake. Ingredients like cucumber and watermelon have high water content, helping you stay hydrated without just drinking water.
Cold soups, such as gazpacho, not only help cool you down but also retain most of the vegetables’ natural water. The liquid base of soups, often made with broth or watered-down yogurt, adds to your daily fluid intake.
Additionally, soups with high water content aid in cooling your body from the inside. Eating these soups can be a natural way to lower your body’s temperature on hot days. As a bonus, the salty and tangy flavors can replenish lost electrolytes, making you feel refreshed and energized.
Ingredients to Use in Summer Soups
Choosing the right ingredients can make your summer soups both refreshing and flavorful. Focus on incorporating seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs to enhance the taste and nutritional value.
Seasonal Vegetables
Seasonal vegetables are a must-have for summer soups. They are fresh, flavorful, and often easier to find. Zucchini and tomatoes are popular choices. Zucchini adds a mild flavor and soft texture, while tomatoes bring a burst of tanginess. Bell peppers and corn are also excellent options. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, and corn provides a slight sweetness that balances out the soup.
Cucumbers and carrots are great for cold soups. Cucumbers offer a refreshing, crisp taste, while carrots contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant color. Green beans, celery, and potatoes can also be included. These vegetables not only add flavor but also bulk up the soup, making it more satisfying.
Use vegetables that are crisp and firm. Freshness is key since it directly affects the flavor and texture of your soup. You can chop, dice, or blend them, depending on the type of soup you’re making.
Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs are vital for adding aroma and depth to your soups. Basil and mint are perfect for summer. Basil brings a sweet, fragrant note, while mint adds a cool, refreshing twist. Dill and thyme are also excellent choices. Dill offers a slightly grassy, tangy flavor, while thyme provides a more earthy taste.
Parsley and cilantro are commonly used. Parsley has a clean, peppery flavor that complements most vegetables, and cilantro has a citrusy, slightly spicy taste that enhances cold soups and gazpachos. Chives can also be used for a mild oniony taste.
When using fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking. This ensures they retain their bright flavors and don’t become too wilted. For cold soups, herbs can be mixed in right before serving. Fresh herbs can be chopped finely or used as whole leaves, depending on the desired effect.
Cooking Techniques for Summer Soups
Making summer soups requires specific techniques that focus on freshness and ease. You will learn how to master chilled soups and prepare quick, simple recipes.
Chilled Soups
Chilled soups are popular in the summer because they are refreshing and easy to make. Start by selecting the freshest ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, and fruits. Use a blender for a smooth consistency.
For instance, Gazpacho, a Spanish cold soup, relies on blending tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Then, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours. Tip: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Soups like Cantaloupe Yogurt Soup can be simple yet delicious. Combine cantaloupe with yogurt, honey, and a bit of lime. Blend and chill. This results in a creamy, flavorful soup that cools you off on hot days.
Quick and Simple Preparation
Summer soups should be quick to prepare without sacrificing flavor. First: gather ingredients ahead of time. For example, have pre-chopped vegetables ready.
Use kitchen tools efficiently. A high-speed blender can transform raw veggies into a creamy soup in minutes. For a Lemon Chicken-Orzo Soup, cook orzo and chicken first. Then, mix them with a tangy lemon broth for a light, zesty flavor.
Don’t forget to use fresh herbs. Fresh thyme, dill, and basil add a burst of flavor. Simply chop and sprinkle them over the soup right before serving. This approach keeps your cooking easy and your meals delicious.
