Who doesn’t love a refreshing, light, and healthy dish during a hot day or when you’re craving something that’s both easy to make and nourishing? If you’re nodding along, then this Cold Cucumber Avocado Soup is something you need to try right away. It’s a cool and creamy soup that not only tastes divine but is also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect blend of flavor and health benefits.
This soup isn’t just for summer, although it’s absolutely ideal for the warmer months. It’s great as a starter to any meal or even as a light meal on its own. Think of it as a nutritious way to refresh your palate, energize your body, and feel satisfied without feeling weighed down.
Now, if you’re not already intrigued, let me dive a little deeper into why this soup deserves a place in your kitchen.
Cold Cucumber Avocado Soup Recipe
A quick glance at the ingredients and preparation method will tell you that this recipe is as simple as it is delicious. What really makes this dish stand out is its creamy texture, which is created by blending avocado with cool cucumber, and then enhanced by a handful of other complementary flavors. The tanginess of the lime, the slight bite of the garlic, and the smoothness of the avocado all come together in the perfect balance.
The best part? No cooking required. It’s all about fresh, raw ingredients that meld into a silky smooth soup that you can sip and savor.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant, cold cucumber avocado soup:
- 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative if you prefer)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional, for an extra kick)
- 1/2 cup cold water, or more for your desired consistency
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chilled water, if you want to thin it out further
- Ice cubes, optional for extra chill
You’ll also need a blender or food processor to combine everything into that smooth, creamy texture we’re aiming for. If you’re someone who loves a touch of extra flavor, a pinch of cumin or a few chili flakes might be a nice addition!
Cooking Instructions
Preparation is a breeze. Here’s how to get from ingredients to a perfect bowl of cold cucumber avocado soup:
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Prep Your Ingredients
- Peel and chop your cucumbers into smaller pieces, making them easier to blend.
- Halve and pit the avocado, scooping the flesh into the blender.
- Mince the garlic (if you’re using it) and chop the cilantro finely.
- Squeeze the fresh lime juice to get about 1/4 cup of liquid.
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Blend
- Add your cucumber, avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and minced garlic into the blender.
- Pour in the cold water and olive oil. Start blending on low, gradually increasing the speed as the ingredients start to combine. Add more cold water as needed to achieve your desired texture. You want it to be creamy but not too thick-think soup, not a smoothie.
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Season
- Once everything is smooth, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like a bit of zing, add more lime juice or even a dash of cumin.
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Chill
- Transfer the soup to a bowl or pitcher and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to an hour. If you’re in a rush, you can toss in a couple of ice cubes to get it chilled faster.
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Serve
- When ready, ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added burst of color and flavor.
And that’s it! Ready to be enjoyed immediately or served as part of a bigger meal.
Ingredient Insights
- Cucumbers: Known for their high water content (about 95%), cucumbers are an excellent hydrating vegetable. Not only do they add to the light, refreshing flavor of this soup, but they are also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, particularly vitamin K. They also promote skin health and can aid in digestion.
- Avocados: Avocados are a powerhouse when it comes to nutrients. They are packed with healthy fats (monounsaturated fats), which are good for heart health. These healthy fats also give the soup its smooth and creamy texture, making it rich without being too heavy. Additionally, avocados are a great source of potassium, fiber, and vitamins E, K, and B6.
- Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds an extra dose of creaminess to this soup while providing a good amount of protein and probiotics, which are great for digestive health. It also helps balance out the acidity of the lime and the earthiness of the avocado.
- Lime: This zesty citrus not only gives the soup a bright, tangy flavor but also adds a boost of vitamin C, which is crucial for skin health and immune function. The lime juice’s acidity also helps cut through the richness of the avocado, adding a refreshing contrast.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness and herbal flavor to the soup, while also being rich in antioxidants. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can always substitute it with parsley for a milder flavor.
Expert Tips
- Texture: The texture of the soup is everything. If you prefer a slightly thinner soup, feel free to add more cold water. Conversely, if you want it to be more of a creamy dip, use less liquid.
- Add a Protein Boost: If you want to make the soup heartier, try adding a handful of cooked chicken breast, shrimp, or even some chickpeas to give it a protein boost. Just toss it into the blender along with the other ingredients.
- Chill it Longer: The longer the soup chills, the more the flavors can meld together. If you have time, prep it a few hours before serving. This will enhance the flavor even more!
- Serve with a Side: This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty piece of whole grain toast, a fresh salad, or even some tortilla chips if you’re craving a little crunch.
Recipe Variations
While the classic cucumber avocado combination is fantastic, here are a few creative twists to make this recipe your own:
- Spicy Cucumber Avocado Soup: Add some heat with diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up. You can also top the soup with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Minty Refreshment: Instead of cilantro, try adding a handful of fresh mint leaves. The mint will give the soup an even more refreshing, cool flavor.
- Coconut Twist: Swap the Greek yogurt for full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream for a tropical twist. This will also make the soup dairy-free, which is perfect for those with lactose intolerance.
- Avocado & Cucumber Gazpacho: Add a couple of ripe tomatoes and a small onion to transform the soup into a gazpacho-inspired dish. A splash of balsamic vinegar can also complement the soup’s flavor.
Final Words
This Cold Cucumber Avocado Soup is as simple as it is delicious. Packed with fresh ingredients, it’s the perfect way to enjoy something light, healthy, and flavorful. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own, whether you stick to the classic or add some unique twists.
It’s quick, easy, and an ideal dish for those hot summer days or anytime you’re looking for something refreshing and nourishing. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to something fresh, this soup will be your new go-to.