Cold cucumber soup

Cold cucumber soup – an explosion of freshness in every spoonful

When it comes to hot summer days, there’s nothing more refreshing and invigorating than a cold cucumber soup. This simple and delicious recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also help you stay hydrated and energized. Wherever you are, this soup will instantly transport you to a sunny terrace, surrounded by nature.

The history of cold cucumber soup is fascinating. Over time, various cultures have created versions of this dish, combining local and traditional ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a light appetizer or a quick meal, this recipe will bring you a splash of freshness and joy.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 peeled cucumber, deseeded
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 400 g natural yogurt (Greek yogurt is ideal for a creamy texture)
- 50 g nuts (cashews or walnuts add a special touch)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (sea salt or pink salt for a more intense flavor)
- 100 ml of milk (whole milk provides excellent creaminess)
- Juice of one lemon (freshly squeezed for a vibrant taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the cucumber and removing the seeds. You can use a special peeler to get thin strips, but for this recipe, a simple knife will suffice. Then cut it into small cubes to facilitate blending.

2. Chopping the nuts and dill: Use a sharp knife to finely chop the nuts and dill. The nuts add a crunchy texture and rich flavor, while the dill will enhance the soup's aroma. If you prefer a stronger dill flavor, you can add more to taste.

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chopped cucumber, chopped nuts, dill, salt, yogurt, and crushed garlic. The garlic will give the soup a distinct aroma and a hint of spiciness, perfectly balancing the freshness of the cucumber.

4. Blending: Use an immersion blender to blend the mixture until you achieve a smooth texture. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can blend only partially, leaving some visible cucumber pieces.

5. Adding liquid ingredients: While continuing to blend, gradually add the milk, lemon juice, and olive oil. These ingredients will make the soup creamier and more flavorful. The olive oil will add a special aroma, so don’t skip it!

6. Chilling the soup: Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the flavors to meld and to achieve a refreshing soup.

7. Serving: When the soup is ready, take it out of the fridge and mix again. Serve in bowls or deep plates, garnishing each serving with chopped nuts and a few cubes of fresh cucumber. A slice of lemon on the edge of the plate will add a touch of elegance.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of yogurt, such as goat yogurt or soy yogurt, for a vegan version.
- If you want to intensify the flavor, you can add a few drops of Tabasco sauce or a slice of hot pepper to the mix.
- For an extra crunch, you can top it with toasted bread croutons.

Nutritional benefits:
Cucumber soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water, thus contributing to hydration. Yogurt provides protein and probiotics, beneficial for digestion, while nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats and antioxidants.

Ideal pairings:
This soup pairs perfectly with a tomato and feta cheese salad, or you can serve it alongside a vegetable tart for a light and healthy lunch. An ideal drink would be a dry white wine or a lemonade cocktail, which will perfectly complement the fresh flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use cucumbers with skin? Yes, but make sure to wash them well and peel off pesticides.
- How long can the soup be stored in the fridge? It is recommended to consume it within 2 days to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.
- Can I freeze the soup? Although it’s not ideal, you can freeze the soup, but the texture will change after thawing.

Cold cucumber soup is a versatile recipe, easily adaptable to your preferences. Try it and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!