Summer has officially arrived, and with it comes the perfect excuse to indulge in cool, creamy, and refreshing soups. As the temperature rises, our taste buds crave lighter, more revitalizing options that not only quench our thirst but also provide a boost of nutrients to help us power through the warmest months. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouth-watering summer soup recipes that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
From classic gazpachos to innovative combinations of fruits and vegetables, these soups are sure to become a staple in your summer cooking repertoire. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, our collection of refreshing summer soups has got you covered.
Chilled Cucumber Avocado Soup
Beat the heat with this light and creamy soup that’s perfect for warm weather. This refreshing recipe combines the natural sweetness of cucumbers and avocados with a hint of tanginess from lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine cucumbers, avocado, and broth. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the Greek yogurt and blend until well combined.
3. Squeeze in the lime juice and season with salt to taste.
4. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep) + chilling time
Tomato Basil Gazpacho
This classic Spanish soup is perfect for hot summer days. With its vibrant flavors and textures, it’s sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup cucumber, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, seeded and diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, basil, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large bowl and add the blended mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add water and stir well.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, this recipe is ready-to-serve straight from the fridge!
Watermelon Gazpacho
Beat the summer heat with this refreshing twist on traditional gazpacho, featuring sweet watermelon as the star ingredient.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine watermelon, bell pepper, cucumber, cilantro, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the blended mixture and stir in vinegar, salt, and pepper.
5. Chill gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Cold Beetroot Soup
This vibrant soup is perfect for warm weather, as it’s light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients. With its deep red color and subtle sweetness, it’s sure to become a summer staple.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroots, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine beetroot, yogurt, water, lemon juice, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is served chilled.
Creamy Zucchini Soup
This creamy zucchini soup recipe is a refreshing twist on traditional soups, perfect for warm weather or as a comforting side dish. The subtle sweetness of the zucchini pairs beautifully with the richness of the cream and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add zucchinis and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Return the pot to medium heat, add heavy cream, chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chilled Pea and Mint Soup
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing soup, perfect for warm weather. This recipe combines the sweetness of peas with the cooling flavor of mint, making it a perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peas, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped mint leaves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Serve cold, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (blending), 30 minutes (chilling)
Avocado Lime Soup
This refreshing soup is a perfect blend of creamy avocado and zesty lime, making it a great addition to any meal or snack. With its smooth texture and vibrant green color, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine avocados, broth, lime juice, onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the avocado is fully broken down.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cold Corn and Coconut Soup
Beat the heat with this creamy and refreshing soup that combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of coconut milk. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying summer meal or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine corn kernels, coconut milk, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Spicy Mango Soup
Elevate your soup game with this refreshing and spicy twist on a classic. This Spicy Mango Soup is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a flavorful pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the diced mango, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chilled Strawberry Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for hot summer days. With its sweet and tangy flavor, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine strawberries, sugar, and water. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl to remove seeds.
3. Stir in lemon juice and salt.
4. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half (if using).
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional sliced strawberries if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Cold Carrot Ginger Soup
This refreshing cold soup is perfect for warm weather, using the sweetness of carrots and spice of ginger to create a deliciously chilled treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy this tasty and healthy soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, cooled
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine carrots, ginger, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the cooled broth and blend until well combined.
3. Stir in the Greek yogurt until fully incorporated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cold soup is ready in just a few minutes of blending and chilling.
Cucumber Yogurt Soup
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing soup, perfect for a summer’s day. The combination of cool cucumber, creamy yogurt, and aromatic dill will leave you feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumber, yogurt, dill, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is ready straight from the blender.
Chilled Melon Soup
Beat the heat with this light and refreshing chilled melon soup, perfect for hot summer days. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the sweetness of ripe melons in a unique and revitalizing way.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed cantaloupe or honeydew melon
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the melon cubes, heavy cream, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or saltiness as needed.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is chilled from start to finish.
Tomato and Peach Gazpacho
Savor the flavors of summer with this refreshing Tomato and Peach Gazpacho, a twist on the classic Spanish soup. This sweet and savory blend of ripe tomatoes, juicy peaches, and crunchy cucumbers is perfect for hot days or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes
– 1 cup diced fresh peaches
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine tomatoes, peaches, cucumber, onion, garlic, and herbs.
2. Blend until smooth, then stir in olive oil, vinegar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This gazpacho is a no-cook recipe perfect for hot summer days.
Cold Sweet Potato Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for warm weather, using sweet potatoes as the base instead of traditional creamy ingredients like heavy cream or butter. With a hint of spices and a squeeze of lime juice, this cold soup is sure to become a summer favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and pureed
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy milk alternative
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sweet potato puree, Greek yogurt, milk, honey, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix until smooth.
2. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: None! Simply prepare and refrigerate the soup for a quick and easy meal.
Chilled Asparagus Soup
Savor the freshness of asparagus in this refreshing chilled soup perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add asparagus to the pot, along with chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving. Garnish with chives or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cold Green Apple Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing cold soup, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a light lunch. This sweet and tangy green apple soup is easy to make and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and chopped
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine chopped apples, Greek yogurt, heavy cream, honey, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve cold, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy chilled treat.
Herbed Buttermilk Soup
This refreshing soup combines the creaminess of buttermilk with the brightness of fresh herbs, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Gradually add the buttermilk, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Stir in the chopped herbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chilled Pumpkin Soup
As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a refreshing bowl of chilled pumpkin soup to warm your heart and soul. This creamy and comforting recipe is perfect for a crisp fall evening or anytime you need a taste of autumn in a bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro), chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the butter, onion, and garlic until softened.
3. Add the pumpkin, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. Let cool, then puree the mixture in a blender or with an immersion blender.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes (plus chilling time)
Cold Spinach and Avocado Soup
Enjoy the refreshing taste of this unique cold soup, perfect for warm weather or as a light meal any time of the year. This creamy blend of spinach, avocado, and herbs is surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine spinach, avocado, yogurt, broth, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs, if using.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing soup recipes! From classic chilled soups like cucumber avocado and tomato basil gazpacho to unique twists like watermelon gazpacho and spicy mango soup, there’s something for everyone. Try cold beetroot or sweet potato soup for a comforting treat, or go light and refreshing with creamy zucchini or chilled pea and mint soup. Whatever your taste buds desire, these 20 summer soups are sure to hit the spot on a hot day.
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