Chilled Strawberry Soup
Chilled Strawberry Soup is a refreshing and delightful dish perfect for warm weather. This sweet and savory soup combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with a hint of citrus and the richness of a smooth, creamy base.
It’s light, yet flavorful, and offers a cool, refreshing experience, making it an ideal appetizer, starter, or even a light dessert for a summer meal.
Strawberries are not only delicious, but they are also packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. This chilled soup highlights the fresh flavor of strawberries while offering a smooth, velvety texture that is balanced by a touch of creaminess. It’s served cold, which is perfect for those hot summer days when you crave something light and hydrating. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, enjoying a special meal with loved ones, or just want a unique dish to enjoy on a sunny afternoon, chilled strawberry soup will certainly impress your guests with its elegance and taste.
Ingredients:
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (for creaminess)
1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
1/2 cup cold water (or fruit juice for added flavor)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added depth)
Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Crushed ice (optional, for serving)
A pinch of salt (optional, to enhance the sweetness)
1 tablespoon powdered sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
How to Make:
Prepare the Strawberries: Begin by preparing the strawberries. Wash them thoroughly, hull (remove the green leafy tops), and cut them in half or quarters depending on their size. This helps to release their juice during blending. Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can also remove any seeds using a fine mesh strainer after blending.
Blend the Soup: In a blender or food processor, combine the halved strawberries, orange juice, lemon juice, Greek yogurt or sour cream, and honey or maple syrup (if using). Add a pinch of salt to help balance the sweetness of the strawberries. For a touch of spice, add ground cinnamon, and for extra depth, a splash of vanilla extract. Pour in 1/2 cup of cold water or fruit juice (such as apple or strawberry juice) to help blend the ingredients smoothly.
Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more liquid (water or juice) until you achieve the desired texture. For a smoother soup, you can strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp or seeds, though this step is optional.
Taste and Adjust: Once blended, taste the soup to check for sweetness and flavor balance. If the strawberries are not sweet enough, add more honey or maple syrup. You can also adjust the citrus by adding more lemon or orange juice if you prefer a more pronounced tang. If the soup is too thick, thin it out with a bit more water or juice. Stir in the powdered sugar if you’d like an extra sweetness boost.
Chill the Soup: Transfer the soup into a large bowl or container and cover it. Refrigerate the soup for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and to achieve the ideal chilled temperature. The soup is best served very cold, so chilling it in advance ensures a refreshing experience. If you’re short on time, you can also add ice cubes directly to the soup, but refrigerating it allows the flavors to develop more fully.
Serve and Garnish: Once the soup is thoroughly chilled, give it a good stir before serving. Pour the soup into individual bowls or cups. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a burst of color and a refreshing aroma. If desired, you can add a few extra sliced strawberries on top for visual appeal. For an added touch, serve the soup with a few crumbles of a sweet biscuit or a dollop of whipped cream.
Enjoy: Serve the chilled strawberry soup immediately. It’s a perfect way to start a summer meal or as a light dessert. It pairs well with light salads, grilled chicken, or seafood dishes. Alternatively, you can enjoy it on its own as a refreshing afternoon snack.
Chef’s Note:
Choosing Strawberries: For the best flavor, make sure to use ripe, sweet strawberries. Overripe strawberries can be too soft and may give the soup a mushy texture, while underripe strawberries may lack the sweetness needed to balance the soup. If strawberries are not in season, frozen strawberries can be used, though fresh strawberries will give the soup a more vibrant taste.
Creaminess Variations: The Greek yogurt or sour cream gives the soup a rich, creamy texture. If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the yogurt with coconut yogurt or another plant-based alternative. For a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of yogurt or use a non-dairy milk like almond milk.
Flavor Enhancements: This soup is versatile and can be customized to your preferences. If you want a tropical twist, try adding a little bit of pineapple juice or coconut milk. You can also experiment with herbs like basil or thyme for a more savory flavor profile. For extra warmth, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg.
Serving Tips: This soup is ideal for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or as a light appetizer before a summer meal. For an elegant presentation, serve it in small shot glasses or decorative cups for a stylish touch.
Storage: The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best served fresh to enjoy the bright, vibrant flavors of the strawberries. If the soup separates upon standing, simply stir it before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
Calories: 120 kcal
Protein: 2 grams
Fat: 3 grams
Saturated Fat: 2 grams
Carbohydrates: 23 grams
Fiber: 3 grams
Sugar: 17 grams
Cholesterol: 10 mg (if using Greek yogurt)
Sodium: 20 mg
Potassium: 250 mg
Vitamin A: 4% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 80% of the DV
Calcium: 5% of the DV
Iron: 2% of the DV
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For a lower-sugar version, you can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup, especially if the strawberries are very sweet.
Conclusion:
Chilled Strawberry Soup is a delightful and light dish that is perfect for a variety of occasions, especially during the warm summer months. The creamy texture, sweet and tangy flavors, and refreshing cold temperature make it an ideal appetizer or dessert to cool down and refresh. With its simplicity, versatility, and deliciousness, this chilled strawberry soup is sure to become a favorite in your summer recipe repertoire. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet moment, this soup is the perfect way to celebrate the deliciousness of fresh strawberries.