
This chilled cucumber soup blends crisp cucumbers with creamy yogurt, fresh mint, garlic, onion, and a little bread for a smooth, refreshing texture.
It requires no cooking and is especially good as a light summer lunch, starter, or cool side dish.
Prep: 20 min · Chill: 2 hr · Total: 2 hr 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired · Course: Soup
Chilled Cucumber Soup Recipe Card
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise. Scoop out and discard the seeds with a teaspoon. Roughly chop 2 1/2 cucumbers, then finely dice the remaining half for garnish.
- Combine the roughly chopped cucumbers, yogurt, 1 tablespoon mint, garlic, onion, bread, and broth in a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth.
- Season with salt and white pepper. If the soup is too thick, blend in 1 to 2 tablespoons of cold water.
- For the best flavor, transfer the soup to a covered container and chill for at least 2 hours.
- Stir well, ladle into chilled bowls, and garnish with the reserved cucumber, remaining mint, and an optional spoonful of yogurt.
Tips for Smooth Cucumber Soup
- Remove the cucumber seeds to keep the soup thick and prevent excess water.
- Blend for a full minute or longer for the silkiest texture.
- Chill the soup before serving so the mint, garlic, and cucumber flavors can blend.
- Taste again after chilling because cold foods may need a little extra seasoning.
Substitutions and Variations
Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Dill, basil, or parsley can replace mint. For a tangier soup, add a tablespoon of lemon juice; for extra richness, blend in half an avocado.
Storage
Store cucumber soup in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving. Freezing is not recommended because yogurt and cucumber can separate after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I serve cucumber soup immediately?
Yes, but it tastes best after chilling for at least 2 hours. Use very cold ingredients if serving it right away.
Do I need to peel the cucumbers?
Peeling creates a smoother, paler soup. If using thin-skinned English cucumbers, you may leave part of the peel on for extra color.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Use an unsweetened dairy-free yogurt with a neutral flavor and vegetable broth.
Prepared with AI assistance. Review ingredient amounts, cooking times, and food-safety guidance before cooking.
Featured image: AI-generated food photography.
