This refreshing chilled cucumber soup combines crunchy cucumbers with zesty lime and a little kick from chili. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for hot days!
Whenever I make this soup, I feel like I’m sipping summer in a bowl! Pair it with some crunchy bread, and you’re in for a treat. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: The star of this soup! I recommend using English cucumbers for their crisp texture and fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers work too. You can even use pickling cucumbers for a different flavor twist!
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess to the soup. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt. I find that cashew yogurt has a lovely mild flavor that won’t overpower the soup!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. In a pinch, bottled lime juice will do, but fresh is always best for that zingy taste. You can also use lemon juice if you want a slight variation.
Chili Sauce: I love using sriracha for a bit of heat, but you can opt for any favorite chili sauce or even fresh chopped chili for a bit more kick. If you need it milder, go easy on the chili or omit it altogether.
How Do You Make a Perfectly Smooth Soup?
Achieving a creamy texture without lumps is key in this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your cucumbers are roughly chopped for easy blending, and they should be chilled to kickstart the cooling effect.
- Use a high-speed blender, which ensures that the ingredients blend smoothly. If your blender tends to struggle, blend in smaller batches.
- If the soup is too thick after blending, simply add in small amounts of cold water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Don’t forget to chill the soup thoroughly before serving — this helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
With these tips, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful bowl of cucumber soup! Happy cooking!
Easy Chilled Cucumber Soup with Chili and Lime
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 large cucumbers, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (or unsweetened plant-based yogurt for a vegan option)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 teaspoons chili sauce or chili paste (such as sriracha or sambal oelek), to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional: sesame seeds (black and white) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing soup takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, plus 30 minutes to an hour for chilling in the fridge. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40-75 minutes to enjoy this delightful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
In a blender, combine the chopped cucumbers, Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Look for a smooth and creamy consistency, so blend on high speed for about 1-2 minutes. If the soup is too thick for your liking, add a little cold water, mixing until you reach your desired texture.
2. Season to Taste:
After blending, taste your soup. Adjust the flavor by adding more salt, lime juice, or chili sauce to fit your taste preferences. This is where you can make it as zesty or as spicy as you like!
3. Chill the Soup:
Transfer the soup to a bowl or storage container, and place it in the refrigerator. Chill for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, making each sip even more delicious!
4. Serve and Garnish:
Before serving, give the soup a gentle stir. Pour it into chilled bowls for an extra refreshing touch. Drizzle a little olive oil and some chili sauce over the top for flair. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and, if you like, sprinkle some sesame seeds for extra crunch.
5. Enjoy!
Serve your chilled cucumber soup with lime wedges on the side, allowing everyone to add a fresh squeeze to their serving. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this easy, cool, and zesty soup on a warm day!
This delightful dish makes for a fantastic starter or a light meal. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Chilled Cucumber Soup with Chili and Lime
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English cucumbers are ideal for their smooth skin and fewer seeds, but you can also use regular cucumbers. If using regular cucumbers, you may want to peel them and deseed for a smoother texture.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
No problem! Simply substitute the Greek yogurt with unsweetened plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond yogurt. This way, you’ll keep the creamy texture while making it vegan-friendly.
Can I Prepare This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup is perfect for making in advance. You can blend and chill it up to a day ahead. Just give it a little stir before serving to refresh the texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir and a taste adjust with a bit more lime juice or seasoning before serving again. Enjoy!
