Cold yogurt and cucumber soup
Cold yogurt and cucumber soup: The perfect refreshment for hot summer days
When the sun shines brightly in the sky and the heat becomes unbearable, a cold yogurt and cucumber soup is exactly what you need to cool off. This simple and quick recipe will bring a splash of freshness to your sweltering days. With only 320 calories per serving and a preparation time of no more than 15 minutes, this soup becomes a true ally in the fight against the heat!
Recipe History
Originating from warm climates, cold yogurt and cucumber soup is a traditional dish that has managed to win the hearts of many food lovers around the world. It is a delicious combination of fresh ingredients that not only cools but also provides essential nutrients to the body. Using yogurt as a base, this recipe is rich in probiotics, which aid digestion and immunity.
Necessary Ingredients
To prepare this refreshing soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 750 g yogurt (0% fat)
- 125 ml milk (0.1% fat)
- juice from 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 200 g cucumbers (cut into small cubes)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 50 g pine nuts
- 150 g Feta cheese
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 sliced lemon, for decoration
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of oil for frying
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Number of servings: 4
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by squeezing the juice from the lemon and peeling the cucumber. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise and use a teaspoon to scoop out the seeds. Then, cut it into small cubes – don’t worry if it pains your soul because with every cube, you add freshness to your soup!
2. Chopping the ingredients: Chop the garlic and Feta cheese into small cubes. Finely chop the fresh thyme and prepare thin slices of lemon for decoration.
3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, place the yogurt and add the milk. Mix well until you achieve a smooth composition. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix again to integrate all the ingredients.
4. Adding the cucumbers: Fold in the diced cucumbers into the yogurt mixture and stir gently to avoid mashing them.
5. Sautéing the garlic: In a frying pan, add a tablespoon of oil, and when it’s hot, add the chopped garlic cloves. Sauté until they turn golden, then transfer them to a bowl.
6. Preparing the pine nuts: In the same pan (without oil), add the pine nuts and toast them over medium heat until they turn golden brown. Turn off the heat and set them aside.
7. Serving the soup: Divide the soup into deep plates, sprinkle the sautéed garlic on top, add the pieces of Feta cheese and pine nuts. Sprinkle fresh thyme on top and decorate with lemon slices.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread or crunchy croutons, which will add a pleasant texture. You can also serve it alongside a glass of fresh lemonade or a fruit cocktail to enhance the refreshing sensation.
Possible Variations
If you want to personalize this soup, you can replace the Feta cheese with goat cheese for a stronger flavor or add fresh dill for a subtle aroma. Additionally, for a spicy note, you can add a few drops of Tabasco sauce or chopped chili peppers.
Nutritional Benefits
This cold soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Yogurt contains probiotics that help maintain gut health, while cucumbers are an excellent source of water and vitamins. Feta cheese adds a portion of protein, and garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use full-fat yogurt?
Yes, you can use full-fat yogurt for a creamier soup, but it will also increase the calorie count.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add fresh chili or chili flakes to the yogurt mixture, to taste.
3. Can it be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a few hours before serving. Just make sure to keep it in the fridge to maintain its freshness.
4. Can I replace the pine nuts?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts, hazelnuts, or pumpkin seeds for a different flavor.
Conclusion
So now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! This cold yogurt and cucumber soup will cool you down and bring a splash of joy to your hot summer days. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the freshness of your ingredients!
Ingredients: For preparation you need the following ingredients: 750 g yogurt (0% fat); 125 ml milk (0.1% fat); juice from 1 lemon; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 200 g cucumbers (cut into small cubes, mandatory); 2 cloves of garlic; 50 g pine nuts; 150 g Feta cheese; 1 bunch of fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon sliced, for decoration; salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon of oil for frying.
