Cold Cucumber Soup
This is a refreshingly cool and light summer soup. It could be served as an hors d'oeuvres in shot glasses or in a bowl beautifully garnished.
We have grown cukes in our yard for the past three years. They are prolific growers, so I’ve had a chance to create all kinds of ways to enjoy them. One delightful surprise for me is the delectable yellow flower. I use it in cocktails and salads and to garnish this soup.
I really fancied this one up with a dollop of sour cream (or creme fraiche) and a light drizzle of St. Germaine elderflower liqueur. If you are spirit-free, try Elderflower syrup in its place. I have included 3 tablespoons of lemon or lime juice in this recipe; the acidity is needed. If you can get it, Lindera Farms delicate vinegars could replace 1/2 of the citrus for a lighter flavor. When I last made this soup, I had their Wisteria Vinegar on hand; it was delicious.
Cold Cucumber Soup
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and seed cucumbers. Chop into 1/2 inch pieces. *Note: save those peels; they are great for infusing water or vodka.
- Using scissors, cut the kaffir lime leaves into strips. If using basil; just rough chop. For tarragon, remove leaves from woody stems.
- In a blender, combine all ingredients except garnish: cucumbers, yogurt, herbs, olive oil, lemon or lime juice (or vinegar), salt, pepper, and honey.
- Blend until completely smooth. Taste for any needed additions - salt, pepper, or honey would be the likely choices.
- Chill for at least 4 hours.
- Serve in bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of St. Germaine or Elderflower syrup. A light dusting of ground sumac or sweet paprika is quite lovely, too.
Notes
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories
145.35Fat
11.47Sat. Fat
2.6Carbs
9.25Fiber
1.34Net carbs
7.92Sugar
7.08Protein
2.43Sodium
310.45Cholesterol
7.71You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional.
