Cucumber Yogurt Soup With Fresh Recipe Ingredients To Enjoy Your Meal

Immerse your senses in the refreshing allure of our cucumber yogurt soup, a quintessential summer dish. As the season’s heat peaks, indulge in this vibrant creation, a delightful symphony of crisp cucumber, creamy yogurt, and the concentrated essence of fresh dill.

A spoonful introduces a wave of contrasting textures and flavors, an adventure that tantalizes and soothes. This unique blend is more than a meal; it’s a cooling oasis, the epitome of culinary refreshment.

A celebration of simplicity and nature’s bounty, it’s a testament to how the right ingredients can create a memorable gastronomic experience. Dive into this rejuvenating, healthy treat today.

What Is Cucumber Yogurt Soup With Fresh Dill?

Cucumber yogurt soup with fresh dill is chilled, creamy, and perfect for the warmer months. This dish combines the refreshing crunch of cucumbers, the creamy tanginess of yogurt, and the subtle aromatic complexity of fresh dill.

A simple yet delightful blend of these primary ingredients and some seasoning creates a light and refreshing soup. Its smooth texture and crisp flavor notes make it an ideal appetizer or a light lunch, often enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread.

History Of Cucumber Yogurt Soup With Fresh Dill

Originating in the culinary melting pot of the Mediterranean and Middle East, the cucumber yogurt soup with fresh dill reflects centuries of gastronomic heritage. A product of cultures valuing resourcefulness and seasonal ingredients, it’s a testament to the region’s vibrant summers and fresh produce.

The soothing yogurt is a staple across this belt, often mixed with herbs, spices, and crisp vegetables for refreshing side dishes. Over time, imaginative cooks transformed it into a standalone chilled soup. The addition of fresh dill, a widely-used herb in the region, imbued an aromatic complexity, making this dish a beloved summer staple worldwide.

Interesting Facts About Cucumber Yogurt Soup With Fresh Dill

• Seasonal Delight: Cucumber yogurt soup with fresh dill is predominantly enjoyed during summer due to its cooling properties and the seasonal availability of fresh cucumbers and dill.
• Healthful and Nutritious: This soup is low in calories and essential nutrients, including vitamins A and K, potassium, and magnesium. The yogurt in it provides beneficial probiotics that support a healthy digestive system.
• Versatile: The base recipe is simple and leaves much room for customization. Some variations include the addition of garlic, mint, or even fruits like melons and grapes for an unexpected twist.
• Global Reach: This soup has variations across many cuisines. For instance, it’s similar to the Greek dish ‘Tzatziki’ and the Indian’ Raita,’ both yogurt-based dishes that incorporate cucumber and herbs.
• Prepping Simplicity: One of the most attractive aspects of this soup is that it requires no cooking, making it a fantastic choice for quick, refreshing meals or for those trying to minimize kitchen heat during the summer.

What Makes Cucumber Yogurt Soup With Fresh Dill Special?

• Refreshing and Cooling: Its remarkable cooling effect, brought on by the cucumber and yogurt, makes it a perfect retreat from the summer heat.
• Nutritional Balance: It is a perfect blend of health and flavor, with yogurt providing probiotics and protein, cucumber offering hydration and vitamins, and dill contributing antioxidants.
• Versatility: It can be served as a standalone dish, a palate cleanser, or a side to heavier, spicier meals. Its creamy texture and crisp cucumber bites offer a delightful contrast.
• Culinary Simplicity: No need for a stove or oven – mix the ingredients and chill. This makes it perfect for beginners in the kitchen or when quick preparation is needed.
• Customizable: While the classic recipe is beloved, adding personal touches is easy, like a hint of garlic for depth or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Ingredients 

 Ingredient Tips 

• Cucumbers: Opt for fresh, firm cucumbers. The English or Persian cucumbers are ideal for their thin skins and fewer seeds. Make sure to wash them thoroughly before use.
• Yogurt: Use plain, unsweetened yogurt for the best results. Greek yogurt can provide a thicker texture and tangier flavor, while regular yogurt will make the soup lighter. It’s essential to use fresh yogurt to avoid a sour aftertaste.
• Fresh Dill: Always use fresh dill instead of dried for this soup. The vibrancy and aroma of fresh dill significantly elevate the dish’s flavor profile. Rinse it properly and pat dry before chopping.
• Seasonings: Adjust the seasonings to your liking. Salt, pepper, lemon juice, or white vinegar can enhance the soup’s flavors.
• Garlic (Optional): If you wish to add garlic, use fresh cloves for the best flavor. You could use a garlic press or mince it finely for even distribution throughout the soup.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Additional Herbs: You could add other herbs, such as mint or basil, for a variation in flavor. Mint adds a refreshing note, while basil contributes a sweet, peppery undertone.
• Spices: Consider a dash of ground cumin or coriander for a warm, earthy flavor. A pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper can give a subtle heat to the soup.
• Fruits: For a surprising twist, add fruits like chopped avocados for creaminess, or diced apples, pears, or melons for a sweet crunch.
• Vegetables: You could include other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for an extra crunch.
• Protein: Add cooked, shredded chicken or tofu cubes to make the soup more filling.

Recipe Directions

• Combine diced cucumbers, Greek yogurt, water (or chicken stock), torn pita bread, dill weed, honey, salt, and pepper in a blender. 
• Blend until smooth and creamy, creating a harmonious fusion of flavors.  Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning, ensuring every spoonful is perfectly balanced. 
• Once blended to perfection, transfer the soup to a container and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. 
•  When the time comes, bring forth the chilled creation, radiating with coolness and serenity. 
• Serve it in chilled bowls, garnished with a sprig of dill or a drizzle of olive oil. As you take the first spoonful, relish the soothing sensation that washes over you, as if transporting you to a tranquil oasis. 
• Enjoy the delightful symphony of flavors and the sheer bliss that Cucumber Yogurt Soup brings to your palate.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Herb Variations: Substitute dill with mint, basil, or parsley for a different herbal note. You could also use a combination of herbs.
• Spiced Version: Incorporate spices like ground cumin, coriander, or a dash of cayenne for a warm, earthy twist.
• Vegan Version: Substitute dairy yogurt with a non-dairy alternative like coconut or almond-based yogurt.

Add-Ons

• Protein: Add cooked and shredded chicken, prawns, or tofu for a protein boost.
• Grains: Cooked quinoa, couscous, or bulgur can be added for more body and to make the soup a filling meal.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, radishes, or carrots can add an extra crunch and vibrant color.

Toppings

• Cheeses: A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese can add a salty tanginess.
• Nuts and Seeds: Toasted almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds can add a delightful crunch.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons can add a lovely contrasting texture.
• Drizzles: A swirl of extra virgin olive oil or a drizzle of chili oil can elevate the flavor profile.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of extra chopped fresh herbs on top can intensify the herbal aroma.

Scaling The Recipe

Scaling a recipe up or down allows you to adjust the serving size to meet your needs. When scaling up a recipe, you multiply the ingredient quantities by the desired factor. This ensures that the ratios and flavors remain consistent. 

For example, if you want to double the recipe, you would double each ingredient, maintaining the same balance of flavors. 

On the other hand, when scaling down a recipe, you divide the ingredient quantities accordingly. This allows you to make a smaller batch while maintaining the overall taste profile. Whether cooking for a crowd or preparing a meal for yourself, scaling the recipe ensures that you can enjoy the dish in the desired portion size.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Fresh Dill: A small sprig of fresh dill or a sprinkle of chopped dill is a classic choice that reinforces the key flavor.
• Cucumber Slices: Thin slices or small cucumber cubes can add a pleasing texture contrast and reinforce the cucumber theme.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil makes the dish look gourmet and adds a hint of richness.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest can add a pop of color and a hint of citrusy brightness. A small dollop of yogurt on top can create a visually appealing contrast and add a creamy element.
• Croutons: A few homemade croutons can provide a delightful crunch and an appealing color contrast.
• Freshly Ground Pepper: Lightly dusting freshly ground black or white pepper can give a contrasting color and a slight heat.
• Edible Flowers: Small edible flowers can make your soup look like a restaurant-grade dish if you’re feeling particularly fancy.

Can I Make Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Add chopped cucumbers, a bit of vegetable broth or water, and additional ingredients like garlic or onions to the slow cooker.
• Cook on low for about 2-3 hours until the cucumbers are tender.
• Allow the mixture to cool, then blend until smooth. Stir in the yogurt and chopped fresh dill, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
• Chill the soup before serving, or serve it warm based on your preference.

Instant Pot

• Use the sauté setting to cook any additional ingredients like garlic or onions.
• Add the chopped cucumbers and a bit of vegetable broth or water, then secure the lid and cook on high pressure for about 5 minutes.
• Allow the mixture to cool, then blend until smooth. Stir in the yogurt and fresh dill, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
• Chill the soup before serving, or serve it warm based on your preference.

Can I Use Store-Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

• The broth is usually excluded from the traditional recipe for cucumber yogurt soup with fresh dill. The soup’s base typically consists of cucumbers, yogurt, and seasonings, without added liquid. The result is a light, refreshing, chilled soup, perfect for warm weather.
• However, suppose you’re modifying the recipe to include broth or trying a warm variation of this soup. You can certainly use store-bought or homemade broth based on your preference and convenience.
• Store-bought broth can save time and effort but choose a low-sodium, high-quality option to control the salt content and avoid artificial additives or preservatives.
• homemade broth allows you to customize the flavor profile to suit your taste. You can control the ingredients and their proportions, making achieving the flavor you desire for your soup easier. Just keep in mind that making broth at home can be time-consuming.

Can I Use Different Types Of Fish/Meat/Pasta/Vegetables With The Recipe?

• Fish: Cold, flaked, poached white fish like cod or haddock could be added to the soup once it has been chilled. Smoked salmon could also make an interesting addition.
• Meat: Shredded, cooked chicken or turkey would be the best options to add meat. They are light and won’t overpower the delicate flavors of the soup. Make sure to add them to the soup once it’s cooled.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes such as orzo or ditalini could be cooked, chilled, and stirred through the soup. This could turn the dish into a more substantial meal.
• Vegetables: Besides cucumbers, you could add various raw vegetables for an extra crunch. Bell peppers, radishes, or cherry tomatoes can work well. Add lightly blanched veggies like asparagus or peas for a different flavor and texture.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making Soup

Success Tips

• For a smoother consistency, peel, and seed the cucumbers before dicing.
• Use thick Greek yogurt for a creamier texture.
• Gradually add water or chicken stock to achieve the desired thickness.
• Adjust the sweetness of the soup by adding honey to taste.
• Allow the soup to chill for the best flavor before serving.

Prepping Tips 

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: This recipe relies on the freshness of the ingredients. Choose firm, ripe cucumbers and fresh yogurt for the best taste.
• Prep Ahead: You can chop the cucumbers and dill ahead of time and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to use them.
• Chilling Time: After blending the soup, chill it for a couple of hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Cooking Tips 

• No-Cook Recipe: This is a no-cook recipe. The cucumbers are used raw, and the soup is served chilled, making it perfect for hot weather or a quick, refreshing dish.
• Blending: When blending the soup, you can blend until completely smooth or leave a bit of texture, depending on your preference.
• Seasoning: Season the soup lightly at the beginning, then adjust the seasoning after it’s chilled, as the flavors will intensify during chilling.
• Serving: Serve the soup chilled, ideally in pre-chilled bowls. Add your garnishes right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Nutritional Values

The nutritional values of the cucumber soup will vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used. However, as a general estimate per serving (assuming the recipe serves 4), it may contain approximately 120-150 calories, 10-12 grams of protein, 0-2 grams of fat, 20-25 grams of carbohydrates, and 2-4 grams of fiber. Sodium content will vary based on added salt and stock used.

What Are The Total Calories In The Recipe?

The entire recipe contains roughly 390 calories. The total calorie content of a Cucumber Yogurt Soup with Fresh Dill can vary depending on the specific ingredients and their quantities used.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Recipe 

• Dairy Allergies or Lactose Intolerance: The recipe includes yogurt containing lactose and dairy proteins. Those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance should avoid this dish unless they use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: As traditionally made, the soup is vegetarian but not vegan due to the use of yogurt. Vegans can use dairy-free yogurt alternatives to adapt this dish.
• Low-Carb or Keto Diets: While cucumbers are low in carbs, yogurt does contain some carbs, which those on stricter low-carb or keto diets might need to account for.
• Gluten-Free: The traditional recipe is gluten-free as long as all the ingredients used, including yogurt and any flavorings or spices, are certified gluten-free.

 Health Benefits Of The Recipe 

• Hydration: Cucumbers are about 95% water, which makes them a great food for promoting hydration.
• Digestive Health: Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which can promote a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestion.
• Bone Health: Both cucumbers and yogurt are good sources of vitamin K, which is important for bone health.
• Heart Health: The potassium in cucumbers can help lower blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease.
• Weight Management: This soup is low in calories and water content, which could help you feel full and aid in weight management.

Nutrition table 

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Watch the Yogurt: Choose a plain, unsweetened yogurt with no added sodium. Some brands may add salt to their products, so check the label.
• Limit Added Salt: You control the amount of salt you add to the soup. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste, or make the soup without added salt.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and dill contain very little sodium. Another advantage of this soup is that the ingredients are naturally low in sodium.
• Spice It Up: Instead of adding more salt, add more herbs and spices for flavor. For example, extra fresh dill, garlic, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add much flavor without any sodium.

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Choose the Right Yogurt: Opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt with no added sugars. Some yogurt brands can have added sugars, so reading the label is important. Greek yogurt is a great choice because it’s also higher in protein.
• Avoid Sweetened Add-ons: If the recipe calls for any add-ons, ensure they are unsweetened. Some recipes suggest adding fruits or sweetened spices which could increase the sugar content.
• Mind Your Garnishes: Some garnishes might add extra sugar to the dish. Stick to garnishes like fresh herbs, a splash of olive oil, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
• Add More Herbs and Spices: Add more fresh dill or spices to boost the soup’s flavor without adding sugar. Garlic, onion, and black pepper can all add depth and complexity to the soup without increasing the sugar content.

How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?

• Chill It: This soup is best served chilled. Make sure to refrigerate it for at least a couple of hours before serving to allow the flavors to blend and the soup to cool thoroughly.
• Serve in Pre-chilled Bowls: To keep the soup cool for longer while serving, you should chill the serving bowls in the refrigerator beforehand.
• Garnish: Just before serving, garnish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh dill, and maybe even a few thin cucumber slices or a dollop of yogurt.
• Serve with Bread: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a Salad or Light Main: Due to its delicate nature, the soup works well as a starter for a summer meal. Consider pairing it with a fresh salad or a light main dish like grilled fish or chicken.

 Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Recipe

• Grilled Pita Bread or Naan: The slightly charred, warm bread pairs excellently with the cold, creamy soup. You can also cut the bread into smaller pieces for easy dipping.
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A salad with quinoa, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese would complement the flavors in the soup and add a vital element to the meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and onions would add a nice contrast to the chilled soup.
• Grilled Chicken or Fish: If you’re looking for a protein-packed side, grilled chicken or fish would go well with this soup. The smoky flavor from the grill nicely counterbalances the freshness of the soup.
• Herbed Flatbreads: Flatbreads seasoned with herbs like rosemary or thyme would make a tasty and satisfying side.

How Long Can We Store The Soup? 

• Refrigerator: You can store the soup in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Be aware that the flavors may intensify over time, and the texture may become slightly more watery due to the water content in the cucumbers.
• Freezer: This soup is not suitable for freezing. The yogurt can separate and become grainy when thawed, and the cucumbers can lose their texture and become mushy.

Can I Make Soup In Advance? 

Yes, you can make cucumber yogurt soup with fresh dill in advance. It’s often better when made a few hours ahead because this melts the flavors together.

If you plan to serve this soup for a gathering, you can make it the night before or in the morning on the day of your event. Once you’ve blended all the ingredients, cover the soup and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Refreshing Dip: Use the soup for fresh vegetables or pita bread. It’ll have a consistency similar to tzatziki and can make a great appetizer.
• Salad Dressing: Use the soup as a unique salad dressing. Toss it with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and protein for a light, refreshing meal.
• Marinade: The soup can be a flavorful chicken or fish marinade. The yogurt helps to tenderize the meat, and the cucumber and dill add a refreshing flavor.
• Sauce for Grilled Veggies or Fish: The chilled soup can be a cooling sauce for grilled vegetables or fish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Regular Yogurt Instead Of Greek Yogurt?

Greek yogurt is recommended for its thicker and creamier texture, but you can use regular yogurt if that’s what you have. Just be aware that the soup may have a slightly thinner consistency.

Can I Use Dried Dill Weed Instead Of Fresh Dill?

Fresh dill provides the best flavor, but you can substitute it with dried dill weed if you don’t have it. Use about one-third of the amount stated for fresh dill, as dried herbs are more potent.

How Long Can I Store The Cucumber Soup?

The cucumber soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. However, note that the texture and flavor may change slightly over time.

Can I Use A Different Sweetener Instead Of Honey?

You can use alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar. Adjust the amount according to taste.

Can I Make The Soup Without A Blender?

While a blender or food processor provides the smoothest texture, you can still make the soup without one. Instead, finely chop the cucumbers and dill, and whisk together the ingredients until well combined for a chunkier version of the soup.

Cucumber Yogurt Soup With Fresh Recipe Ingredients To Enjoy Your Meal

5 from 4 votes

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

Calories

98

kcal

This recipe is for a refreshing and creamy cucumber soup. It combines diced cucumbers, Greek yogurt, dill weed, honey, and seasonings to create a chilled and flavorful soup.

Ingredients

• Mini cucumbers (roughly diced)

• Plain Greek yogurt (0% fat)

• Water (or substitute chicken stock)

• Oat bran or whole wheat pita bread

• Fresh dill weed

• Honey

• Kosher salt

• Fresh ground pepper

Step-By-Step Directions

• Preparation Steps
  Peel the cucumbers and chop them into small chunks.
  Chop the fresh dill finely, reserving a few sprigs for garnish
• Cooking
  There’s no cooking involved in this recipe!
• Blending
  Place the chopped cucumber, yogurt, dill, salt, and pepper in a blender.
  Blend until smooth or until it reaches your desired consistency.
  Final Touches:
  Pour the soup into a large bowl and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to blend and intensify
• Serving
  After chilling, give the soup a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  Pour the soup into individual bowls, drizzle with olive oil, garnish with the reserved dill sprigs, and serve.

Recipe Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfMuJ9_bRNY

Notes

• Cucumber Variation: Using mini cucumbers, you can leave the skin on for added texture and color. If using English cucumbers, it’s best to peel them as the skin can be tougher.
• Adjusting Texture: The amount of water or chicken stock can be adjusted to achieve your desired thickness. Add more liquid for a thinner soup or reduce it for a thicker consistency.
• Optional Garnish: For added visual appeal, consider garnishing the soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of dill weed, or some freshly diced cucumbers.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve the cucumber soup as a starter or alongside a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal. It can also be enjoyed as a chilled snack on a hot day.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

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