Minted Cucumber Soup
A refreshing chilled cucumber soup with mint and yogurt, perfect for hot days and light lunches, offering cool, herbal flavors with a crunchy walnut garnish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice cucumbers thickly.
- Combine 1 1/2 cucumbers with onion, mint, and broth in a blender container. Process until finely chopped.
- Pour into a serving bowl.
- Blend in yogurt and pepper.
- Chill, covered, for 1 to 2 hours.
- Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Garnish with reserved finely chopped cucumbers, walnuts, and freshly chopped chives.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your cucumbers are well-pureed before adding yogurt. If you want a lighter version, substitute low-fat yogurt for full-fat. Fresh mint is key for flavor; however, if unavailable, dried mint can work in a pinch, though you'll need less. Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup chilled in bowls, garnished with the reserved cucumbers, walnuts, and freshly chopped chives for added crunch and flavor. This soup pairs beautifully with a light salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Chicken With Yogurt for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may deepen over time, making it even more delicious. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring continuously, as yogurt can curdle if heated too quickly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Minted Cucumber Soup contains roughly 362 calories, with 9g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day ahead. Just prepare it as instructed, chill, and store in the refrigerator. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth or even water can be used. For a richer flavor, consider using homemade vegetable stock. This adjustment will keep the soup light while still maintaining a delicious taste.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
Yes, if you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños during the blending process. This will add a nice kick without overpowering the fresh flavors of the cucumbers and mint.
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).