Chilled Summer Squash Soup 🥣
Overview
This chilled summer squash soup recipe is the epitome of refreshment on a scorching summer day! 🌞 Inspired by a delightful soup enjoyed during a cruise, it’s a light, flavorful blend that will leave you craving more. Bursting with the goodness of fresh squash, herbs, and a touch of creamy goodness, it’s perfect for those seeking a healthy, low-carb option with a burst of vibrant flavors. Let’s dive into creating this culinary masterpiece!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 89.6 per serving
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 3.8mg
- Sodium: 659.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 7.8g
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Sugar: 4.9g
- Protein: 5.8g
Time Table
Preparation | Cooking | Total |
---|---|---|
40 minutes | 10 minutes | 50 minutes |
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter 🧈
- 1 onion, diced 🧅
- 1 cup chicken broth 🍗
- 6 cups diced summer squash 🥒
- A pinch of white pepper 🌶️
- A pinch of salt 🧂
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves 🌿
- 3-4 tablespoons sour cream or yogurt 🥄
Instructions
-
Saute the Onion:
- In a large skillet, heat the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
-
Add Broth and Vegetables:
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced summer squash, white pepper, salt, and fresh basil leaves.
-
Simmer and Cook:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and melding of flavors.
-
Cool and Blend:
- Once the vegetables are tender, remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool for a bit.
- In batches, carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
-
Season and Chill:
- Return the blended soup to the skillet or a large bowl.
- Season to taste with additional white pepper if desired.
- Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until it’s thoroughly cold.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- When ready to serve, ladle the chilled soup into bowls.
- Top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy, tangy finish.
- Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Tips for Perfection
- For a velvety smooth soup, be sure to blend it in batches, filling the blender only halfway each time.
- If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a bit more chicken broth or cold water while blending.
- Customize your toppings! Alongside sour cream or yogurt, try a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, or a handful of toasted nuts for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
- This chilled summer squash soup makes a delightful starter for a light summer lunch or dinner.
- Serve it alongside a crisp green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
- It’s also a fantastic addition to any summer gathering or picnic, served in small cups or shot glasses for a refreshing appetizer.
Storage and Reheating
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Before serving leftovers, give the soup a good stir as it may naturally separate when chilled.
- To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling to maintain its fresh flavors.
Health Benefits
- Low Carb: Perfect for those watching their carb intake, this soup is light on carbohydrates.
- Low Cholesterol: With no added cholesterol, it’s heart-friendly and healthy.
- High in Fiber: The squash and fresh herbs provide a good dose of fiber for digestion.
- Protein Boost: While light, the soup still offers a decent amount of protein, making it a satisfying option.
Get Creative!
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! 🎨
- Try swapping out the summer squash for zucchini or a mix of both for a variety of flavors.
- Add a touch of spice with a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the sour cream with coconut cream or a dollop of cashew cream.
Conclusion
With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and creamy texture, this chilled summer squash soup is a true celebration of summer’s bounty. 🌿 Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny afternoon or serving it at your next gathering, it’s sure to impress with its simple yet elegant appeal. So, grab your ingredients, blend up a batch, and savor the taste of summer in every spoonful! 🥄✨