When summer gets hot, a chilled Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes is just what you need. Growing up, my grandmother made the most refreshing soups from garden ingredients. These soups were a cool relief from the heat.
This Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes is more than a recipe. It’s a taste of summer in every spoonful. It’s inspired by gazpacho, making it the perfect cool-down for hot days.
Looking for a light lunch or a fancy starter? This summer soup is perfect. It brings vibrant flavors and a cool touch to your meal.
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy 10-minute preparation time
- Perfect chilled soup for hot summer days
- Nutritious blend of cucumbers and tomatoes
- Versatile recipe with multiple serving options
- Low-calorie and refreshing meal choice
Benefits of Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes
Discover the amazing health benefits of this tasty vegetarian soup. It’s more than just food; it’s a journey to better health. Every spoonful is packed with goodness.
This soup is a mix of health and flavor. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious meal.
Cucumber Nutritional Powerhouse
Cucumbers are low in calories but high in health benefits:
- They are about 95% water, great for staying hydrated.
- They are full of Vitamin K and potassium.
- They help with weight management because they are low in calories.
- They are rich in dietary fiber, good for your digestive system.
Tomatoes: A Nutritional Gem
Tomatoes add amazing nutritional value to this soup:
- They are full of Vitamin C and Vitamin K.
- They have lots of antioxidants.
- They are good for your heart.
- They help reduce inflammation.
Hydration Benefits
Your soup is not just tasty; it’s also super hydrating. With over 90% water, it keeps you hydrated, perfect for hot summer days.
By mixing cucumbers and tomatoes, you get a meal that’s both nutritious and refreshing. It boosts your health and tastes great.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make a tasty gazpacho-inspired cucumber soup, you need the right ingredients. The right mix can turn a simple recipe into a refreshing treat.
Fresh Cucumbers: The Foundation of Flavor
Choosing the right cucumber is key. An English cucumber is best for its crisp taste. You’ll need about 1 full cucumber for the soup. It adds a fresh touch to your cold tomato soup.
- Choose firm, bright green cucumbers
- Avoid cucumbers with soft spots or yellowing
- Organic cucumbers provide enhanced flavor
Ripe Tomatoes: Vibrant and Flavorful
Tomatoes are the heart of gazpacho-style soups. You’ll need 2.5 pounds of ripe, deep-red tomatoes. Their sweetness and acidity make a great base for your soup.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe Tomatoes | 2.5 pounds | Primary flavor base |
| Cucumber | 1 English cucumber | Refreshing texture |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Aromatic depth |
Optional Ingredients to Elevate Your Soup
Make your gazpacho special with these optional ingredients:
- 2 fresno chiles for heat
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 3 tablespoons sherry vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Each ingredient is important for a balanced and delightful cold tomato soup. It will wow your guests with its vibrant flavors and refreshing qualities.
Preparation Time and Serving Size
Making a tasty cucumber tomato gazpacho is simple. It’s quick to prepare, ideal for hot summer days or a fast, healthy meal.
This gazpacho is easy to make, with little time needed and lots of flavor. Here’s what you need to know to start your cooking journey.
Estimated Preparation Time
The time needed for your gazpacho includes two main parts:
- Active preparation: 15 minutes
- Chilling time: 2-4 hours
Precise Serving Details
| Serving Metric | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Total Servings | 4 servings |
| Serving Size | Approximately 1 cup |
| Calories per Serving | 181 kcal |
Serving Suggestions
For the best gazpacho experience, follow these tips:
- Chill thoroughly before serving
- Serve in chilled glasses or small bowls
- Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil
Pro tip: The longer your gazpacho chills, the more the flavors will develop and intensify.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the perfect chilled soup recipes needs precision and care. Your Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes will come together seamlessly by following these detailed instructions.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start your culinary journey by gathering fresh ingredients. You’ll need:
- 2 Persian cucumbers, washed and trimmed
- 2 lbs ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 garlic clove
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Blending the Soup
Turn your fresh ingredients into a silky-smooth Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes. Carefully chop all vegetables into roughly equal pieces. Place them in a high-powered blender, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
- Add chopped vegetables to the blender
- Pour in vinegar and olive oil
- Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds
- Pulse for a chunkier texture if desired
Chilling the Soup
Chilled soup recipes shine when properly refrigerated. After blending, transfer your soup to a clean container. Refrigerate for 30-60 minutes to enhance flavor profiles and achieve the perfect refreshing temperature.
Pro tip: Garnish with fresh basil and halved cherry tomatoes just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Cucumber Soup
Making tasty summer soups needs the right ingredients and seasoning. Start by picking the best parts and knowing how to bring out their flavors.
Selecting the Right Cucumbers
Choosing the right cucumbers is key for your summer soups. Look for these important traits:
- Choose English cucumbers with firm and smooth skin
- Select cucumbers that are deep green and free from yellow spots
- Aim for cucumbers approximately 92% water content for maximum freshness
- Pick medium-sized cucumbers around 8-10 inches long
Choosing Quality Tomatoes
Tomatoes are essential for your healthy soup. Here are some tips for picking them:
- Pick ripe tomatoes with vibrant color and slight softness
- Check for rich, deep red coloration
- Avoid tomatoes with bruises or blemishes
- Choose organic tomatoes when possible for enhanced flavor
Adjusting Seasoning
Seasoning makes your summer soups go from good to great. Follow these tips:
- Start with small amounts of salt and pepper
- Taste and adjust gradually
- Consider fresh herbs like dill or chives
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness
Creating the perfect healthy soup is about finding the right balance and taste. Don’t be afraid to try new things!
Variations of Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes
Trying out different variations can turn a simple vegetarian soup into a fun adventure. A cucumber tomato gazpacho is a great canvas for your creativity in the kitchen.
Adding Herbs and Spices
Make your cucumber soup even better with fresh herbs. They add amazing flavors and smells. Here are some great herb combinations:
- Cilantro for a zesty, bright taste
- Basil to add a sweet, peppery note
- Dill for a classic, refreshing profile
- Mint for a cool, crisp undertone
Incorporating Other Vegetables
Adding more veggies can make your soup healthier and tastier:
- Roasted bell peppers for smoky depth
- Celery for extra crunch
- Avocado for creamy texture
- Roasted garlic for intense flavor
Creamy vs. Brothy Options
You can change your gazpacho to fit your texture preference:
- Creamy version: Add Greek yogurt or coconut milk
- Brothy version: Use light vegetable broth
- Protein boost: Incorporate chilled shrimp or lump crab meat
Try these variations to make a cucumber soup that’s all your own. It’s a great way to show off your cooking skills and taste.
Storing Leftover Cucumber Soup
Keeping your chilled soup fresh is key. Cold tomato and cucumber soups need careful storage to stay tasty and healthy.
Proper storage of your cucumber soup keeps it fresh for days. Here are some tips to keep your soup perfect:
Refrigeration Best Practices
- Always use an airtight container when storing
- Refrigerate immediately after the soup cools to room temperature
- Store for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator
- Stir well before serving, as natural separation may occur
Freezing Your Cucumber Soup
Freezing is a great way to keep your soup longer. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use freezer-safe containers with tight-fitting lids
- Leave some space at the top for expansion
- Freeze for up to 2 months
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving
Pro Storage Tips
Here are more tips for storing your cold tomato soup:
- Avoid storing soup with additional garnishes
- Keep herbs separate until serving time
- Check for any signs of spoilage before consuming
By following these tips, your cucumber soup will stay fresh and safe to eat for days.
Serving Ideas for Cucumber Soup
Summer soups like gazpacho are super versatile. They can go from simple to gourmet with the right touches. Try different accompaniments and creative plating.
Perfect Bread Pairings
Finding the right bread can make your summer soups even better. Here are some great choices:
- Crusty artisan sourdough
- Crisp olive bread
- Rustic country wheat bread
- Traditional socca
Ideal Accompaniments
Choose side dishes that match the soup’s cool taste:
| Accompaniment | Flavor Profile | Recommended Portion |
|---|---|---|
| Greek salad | Tangy and fresh | 1/2 cup |
| Grilled shrimp | Light protein | 3-4 pieces |
| Herb-roasted chickpeas | Crunchy and savory | 1/4 cup |
Garnishing Techniques
Make your soups look amazing with these garnish ideas:
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil
- Sprinkle finely chopped fresh herbs
- Add diced cucumber for texture
- Scatter cherry tomato halves
- Grind fresh black pepper on top
Be creative and add your own twist to gazpacho. Try different garnishes and sides to find your favorite.
Health Benefits of Eating Cucumber
Cucumbers are packed with nutrients, making them a great addition to healthy soups. They are perfect for those who follow a vegetarian diet or want to eat fewer calories. Cucumbers bring many health benefits, making them a top choice for any meal.
Adding cucumbers to your soup means you’re picking a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food. Let’s look at the main health perks of this amazing vegetable:
Low-Calorie Nutritional Profile
For those watching their weight, cucumbers are a great choice. Here are some key nutritional facts:
- Only 16 calories per cup
- Zero grams of total fat
- 4 grams of carbohydrates per serving
- 1 gram of protein per cup
High-Fiber Digestive Support
Cucumbers add a lot of fiber to your soup. With 1 gram of fiber per cup, they help with digestion and keep you full longer.
| Nutrient | Amount per Cup |
|---|---|
| Water Content | 95% |
| Sugar | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
Cucumbers also have important vitamins and minerals like magnesium, potassium, and vitamins K, A, and C. Their high water content also contributes to overall hydration, making them a great choice for any soup.
Studies show cucumbers might help with blood sugar control and skin health. Adding cucumbers to your diet is a smart move for your overall health.
Popular Cucumber Soup Recipes
Cucumber soup brings together flavors from around the world. It ranges from cool, refreshing soups to Mediterranean dishes. These recipes make for a healthy and tasty meal.
Exploring cucumber soup recipes opens up a world of flavors. We’ll look at two classic recipes that will excite your taste buds.
Traditional Cold Cucumber Soup
The traditional cold cucumber soup is a timeless delight. Gazpacho-style soups often include:
- Fresh cucumbers
- Ripe tomatoes
- Bell peppers
- Garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- White wine vinegar
This cold tomato soup is full of fresh ingredients. It’s a light and healthy option, with about 132 kcal per serving.
Mediterranean Cucumber Soup
Mediterranean cucumber soup adds a unique twist to traditional recipes. It features:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Milk Yogurt | 2 cups | Provides protein and probiotics |
| Fresh Herbs | 1 cup | Adds flavor and micronutrients |
| Walnuts | 1/2 cup | Contributes healthy fats |
| Sumac | 3/4 teaspoon | Enhances flavor profile |
This Mediterranean-style soup needs to chill for at least 2 hours. It becomes a creamy, nutritious soup with about 156 kcal per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cucumber Soup
When making chilled soups like cucumber tomato gazpacho, you might have questions. Let’s tackle the most common ones to help you make your dish perfect.
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes?
While fresh tomatoes are best for gazpacho, canned tomatoes can be a good substitute. Here are some tips:
- Drain excess liquid from canned tomatoes
- Choose high-quality, no-salt-added varieties
- Adjust seasoning as canned tomatoes may taste different
How Long Can I Store the Soup?
Storing your soup right is key to keeping it fresh. For cucumber tomato gazpacho:
- Store in an airtight container
- Refrigerate immediately after preparation
- Consume within 3-5 days for optimal taste
Pro tip: Always keep your gazpacho refrigerated. Give it a quick stir before serving to mix the ingredients well.
Additional Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps your gazpacho delicious and safe. Cold temperatures keep the soup’s flavors and nutrients fresh. Remember, using fresh ingredients is essential for a great chilled soup experience.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes
Your Cucumber Soup with Tomatoes is a perfect summer treat. It turns simple ingredients into a healthy and colorful dish. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season.
Be creative with this recipe to make it your own. Try new herb mixes, change the spices, or use different veggies. This soup is all about being flexible and personal.
Encourage Experimentation
Don’t be afraid to try new things. Add fresh basil, mint, or a bit of spicy jalapeño to make it even better. Your kitchen is a place to play and create, and this soup is a great starting point.
Invite Feedback on the Recipe
Share your ideas and changes with us. Your input helps others find new ways to enjoy this tasty soup. It’s perfect for anyone, whether you’re experienced or just starting out.