Quick Vichyssoise

Prep: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: French

Vichyssoise is a creamy, chilled potato and onion soup with a hint of parsley and chives, perfect for a light, refreshing appetizer or side dish. Its smooth texture and savory flavors make it ideal for warm weather or elegant gatherings, offering a quick and easy way to impress guests.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons snipped parsley
  • 2 chicken bouillon cubes
  • 1 cup light cream
  • packaged instant mashed potatoes (enough for 4 servings)
  • 1 (4 oz.) package whipped cream cheese with onion
  • snipped chives

Instructions

  1. Combine water, snipped parsley, and chicken bouillon cubes in a saucepan.
  2. Cover and bring to a boil, stirring until the bouillon cubes dissolve.
  3. Remove from heat and add light cream.
  4. Stir in instant mashed potatoes.
  5. Cool at room temperature for 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of light cream. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute the whipped cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt. The instant mashed potatoes can also be replaced with freshly mashed potatoes for a more homemade taste. Fresh herbs like dill or tarragon can enhance the flavor profile, giving a nod to dishes like Austrian Barley Soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with snipped chives and additional parsley for a pop of color. This vichyssoise pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad, making it a perfect starter for a summer meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Chicken Saute With Vinegar to balance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid boiling, as this can alter the texture of the cream. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Quick Vichyssoise contains roughly 336 calories, with 22g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (184% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (117% of the Daily Value), and potassium (93% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. At about 336 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.

336 kcal 17% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 21.8g 44% DV
Total Fat 11.7g 15% DV
Carbs 46.9g 17% DV
Fiber 21.8g 78% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 272.3mg 12% DV
Potassium 4350.3mg 93% DV
Cholesterol 7.2mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 66.6mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 105.4mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 133.7mg 10% DV
Iron 33.1mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

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 vichyssoise ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the recipe and refrigerate it. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier. Remember to stir well before serving, as the ingredients may settle.

Is vichyssoise served hot or cold?

Traditionally, vichyssoise is served cold, making it a refreshing option for warm days. However, if you prefer it warm, you can enjoy it shortly after preparation. Just be cautious not to heat it too much to maintain its creamy texture.

What can I use instead of chicken bouillon cubes?

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute chicken bouillon cubes with vegetable bouillon cubes. Alternatively, homemade stock can be used for a richer flavor. Just adjust the salt accordingly, as store-bought versions can vary in sodium content.

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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