Name: Cold Cucumber Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 large English cucumbers, halved and seeded (reserve ½ cup finely diced for serving); 1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 2 green onions, roughly chopped; 2 garlic cloves; 1 teaspoon honey; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ⅓ cup loosely packed dill; ¼ cup loosely packed flat-leaf parsley leaves; ¼ cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh ground pepper, to taste; ½ red onion, finely chopped, for serving; Feta cheese, crumbled, for serving

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Cold Cucumber Soup is the perfect dish for those hot summer days when you crave something light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. With creamy Greek yogurt, tangy lemon, and a blend of fresh herbs, this soup is incredibly easy to make and requires no cooking—just blend, chill, and serve! Garnished with crunchy cucumbers, red onion, and feta, this chilled soup is a delightful choice for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cold Cucumber Soup is the ultimate summer recipe, offering a creamy texture without feeling heavy. The combination of cucumber, Greek yogurt, and lemon creates a smooth, tangy base that is balanced out by the fresh herbs and honey. It’s light, nutritious, and refreshing—everything you want from a summer dish. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, needing just 15 minutes of your time and a few ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a cool appetizer or a quick meal, this soup fits the bill. Cold Cucumber Soup

Ingredients

2 large English cucumbers, halved and seeded, reserve ½ cup finely diced for serving
1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt
1 lemon, zested and juiced
2 green onions, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon garlic powder
⅓ cup loosely packed dill
¼ cup loosely packed flat-leaf parsley leaves
¼ cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
Kosher salt, to taste
Fresh ground pepper, to taste
½ red onion, finely chopped, for serving
Feta cheese, crumbled, for serving

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients and prepare the cucumbers by halving and seeding them. Set aside ½ cup of finely diced cucumber for garnish.
Blend the soup: In a food processor or blender, combine the chopped cucumbers, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, green onions, garlic cloves, dill, parsley, garlic powder, and ¼ cup of olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Season and refrigerate: Taste the soup and season with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. Cover the soup and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve: Just before serving, adjust the seasoning as needed. Pour the chilled soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

Add protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or a hard-boiled egg as a topping.
Spicy kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the soup before blending.
Herb substitutions: If you don’t have dill or parsley, you can substitute with basil or mint for a fresh twist.
Vegan version: Swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt and use a dairy-free feta cheese alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken slightly, so you can thin it with a little water or extra olive oil when serving.
Freezing: This soup is not ideal for freezing due to its creamy texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating: This soup is served cold and is best enjoyed chilled, so there’s no need for reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes better when allowed to chill for several hours or overnight, as the flavors have time to blend together.

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

English cucumbers are preferred in this recipe due to their mild flavor and lack of seeds, but you can use regular cucumbers as well. Just be sure to remove the seeds and peel the skin if you prefer.

Can I make this soup without garlic?

If you prefer a milder taste, you can skip the garlic or use a smaller amount. The soup will still be delicious without it.

Can I add a bit of spice to this soup?

Absolutely! If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup a spicy kick.

What if I don’t have fresh dill or parsley?

You can substitute fresh dill with other fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, or mint for a different flavor. Parsley can be replaced with cilantro for a vibrant taste.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Cold Cucumber Soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet.

Can I use non-dairy yogurt in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut, almond, or soy-based yogurt, for a dairy-free version.

How can I make this soup sweeter?

If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, you can add a little extra honey or a small amount of agave syrup to taste.

Can I add avocado to the soup for extra creaminess?

Yes, adding half an avocado would give the soup an extra creamy texture and enhance its flavor. Blend it in along with the other ingredients.

Can I serve this soup with bread or crackers?

Yes! This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or crackers on the side, making it a more substantial meal.

Conclusion

Cold Cucumber Soup is a wonderfully refreshing and creamy dish that’s perfect for warm weather. The smooth, tangy base combined with the fresh crunch of cucumber, red onion, and feta makes each spoonful satisfying and full of flavor. This no-cook, quick-to-prepare recipe is ideal for a light lunch or dinner and can easily be made ahead of time. Whether you’re looking to cool off on a hot day or enjoy a light meal, this soup is a perfect choice.