Buttermilk Shrimp Soup

Prep: 480 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A refreshing cold shrimp soup with a creamy buttermilk base, crisp vegetables, and a hint of dill. Perfect for hot days or light lunches, this dish combines the sweetness of shrimp with the tang of buttermilk and fresh produce for a delightful, satisfying experience.

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Ingredients

  • 1 qt. buttermilk, well shaken
  • 8 oz. cooked shrimp, shelled, deveined, and thinly sliced
  • 1 small cucumber, peeled, quartered, seeded, and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup green onion, finely sliced
  • 6 red radishes, thinly sliced
  • dried dill weed, as needed

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients except dill weed in a large bowl.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  3. Stir the soup well before serving.
  4. Ladle into chilled bowls and top with a sprinkle of dill weed.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the buttermilk with the other ingredients before mixing in the shrimp and vegetables. You can substitute fresh dill with 1 teaspoon of dried dill, if needed. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce. This soup is inspired by classic seafood recipes, making it a refreshing choice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chilled soup as a starter or light meal, pairing it with crusty bread or a simple garden salad. It makes a fantastic addition to any summer gathering or brunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Potato Tuna Chowder for a delightful seafood-themed spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you need to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent curdling. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the buttermilk.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Buttermilk Shrimp Soup contains roughly 132 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.

132 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.1g 14% DV
Total Fat 5.8g 7% DV
Carbs 14.8g 5% DV
Fiber 2.4g 8% DV
Sugar 11.1g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 188.7mg 8% DV
Potassium 623.2mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 18.4mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 223.4mcg 25% DV
Vitamin C 71.6mg 80% DV
Vitamin D 2.1mcg 10% DV
Calcium 252mg 19% DV
Iron 2mg 11% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use raw shrimp instead of cooked?

While cooked shrimp is ideal for this recipe, you can use raw shrimp if you prefer. Just ensure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the soup. This will also enhance the flavor as the shrimp will absorb the buttermilk and other ingredients.

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond or coconut milk, mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice to mimic the tanginess. Adjust the seasonings as needed to achieve the desired flavor.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to customize the soup by adding other crunchy vegetables such as shredded carrots or diced celery. You can also incorporate herbs like parsley or cilantro for additional freshness. Just be mindful of balancing flavors so they complement the shrimp.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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