Healthy Cucumber Soup: A Refreshing Delight for All Seasons
When you’re craving a light, cooling, and nutritious soup, this Healthy Cucumber Soup is just what you need. It’s simple to prepare, loaded with fresh ingredients, and perfect as a starter or even a light meal. This easy-to-make soup combines the cooling properties of cucumbers with the richness of Greek yogurt, creating a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Whether you’re serving it during the summer months or as a refreshing dish any time of the year, this cucumber soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Garlic, minced | 2 tablespoons |
| English cucumbers, peeled and diced | 4 cups |
| Onions, diced | 0.5 cup |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable broth | 1.5 cups |
| Salt | 0.5 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes | 0.25 teaspoon |
| Parsley, diced | 0.25 cup |
| Greek yogurt, plain | 0.5 cup |
Directions
-
Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by adding all the ingredients into a blender, except for the ½ cup of chopped cucumbers. The cucumbers will be used later as a garnish.
-
Blend Until Smooth: Process the mixture until smooth, allowing all the flavors to meld into a velvety texture.
-
Serve and Garnish: Divide the blended soup into four servings. Garnish each bowl with the remaining chopped cucumbers and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. You can adjust the seasoning to your taste if desired.
-
Enjoy: This soup is best enjoyed chilled. Let it sit in the fridge for a bit before serving for the ultimate refreshing experience.
Allergen Information
- Dairy: This recipe contains Greek yogurt, which may not be suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy. You can substitute the yogurt with a non-dairy alternative like coconut or almond yogurt.
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: The Healthy Cucumber Soup is completely vegetarian.
- Low-Carb: With only 8 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this soup is suitable for low-carb diets.
- Low-Calorie: This recipe is a great option for those watching their calorie intake, with just 371 calories per serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 371 |
| Fat | 36.0 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 8.0 grams |
| Protein | 4.0 grams |
Helpful Tips
- Serving Suggestion: This soup is delightful when served with a side of whole grain crackers or a light salad to make it a complete meal.
- Chilled or Room Temperature: While this soup is particularly refreshing when served chilled, you can also enjoy it at room temperature if preferred.
- Flavor Adjustment: If you enjoy more spice, feel free to add extra chili flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Conclusion
This Healthy Cucumber Soup is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a versatile recipe that fits well within various dietary preferences. With its light and creamy texture, combined with the cooling effect of cucumbers and the richness of Greek yogurt, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Perfect for a light meal or as a starter to your dinner, it offers a refreshing and satisfying option without the guilt. Enjoy it chilled for the best experience, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite garnishes!
