Strawberry Soup
Strawberry soup is a delightful and refreshing dish that embodies the essence of summer. With its vibrant color and sweet, fruity flavor, it’s perfect for warm days, elegant gatherings, or as a unique starter to a special meal.
This chilled soup is not only visually stunning but also offers a fantastic balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a versatile option that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, dessert, or even a light lunch.
The simplicity of the ingredients is part of what makes strawberry soup so appealing. Fresh strawberries take center stage, but the addition of complementary flavors—like citrus and herbs—adds depth and complexity. Whether served plain or garnished with whipped cream and mint, this soup is sure to impress guests and family alike.
Let’s dive into the recipe for this delightful strawberry soup, highlighting its fresh ingredients and simple preparation steps.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Soup:
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup apple juice (or orange juice for a citrusy twist)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream or coconut whipped cream
- Fresh mint leaves
- Additional sliced strawberries
- Crumbled shortbread cookies or granola (optional for added texture)
How to Make Strawberry Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Start by washing and hulling the strawberries. Remove the green stems and any blemishes. Slice the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size. This step allows the strawberries to release their juices and flavors more effectively.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the sliced strawberries, apple juice, honey (or maple syrup), lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Blend the mixture until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse the blender a few times instead of blending continuously. This will keep some strawberry pieces intact for added texture.
Step 3: Adjust the Flavor
Taste the blended soup and adjust the sweetness if needed. Add more honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter flavor, or a bit more lemon juice for extra acidity.
If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more juice or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Chill the Soup
Pour the strawberry soup into a bowl or pitcher, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.
If you’re short on time, you can also serve it immediately, but chilled soup is more refreshing and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve the Strawberry Soup
Once chilled, give the soup a gentle stir and ladle it into serving bowls.
For a beautiful presentation, top each bowl with a dollop of whipped cream or coconut whipped cream, a few fresh mint leaves, and some additional sliced strawberries.
For added crunch, sprinkle crumbled shortbread cookies or granola on top, if desired.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve the strawberry soup cold, either as an appetizer or a light dessert. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and delightful texture of this summery dish!
Chef’s Note
Strawberry Selection: When choosing strawberries, look for ones that are bright red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid those with white or green patches, as they may be under ripe. Local, in-season strawberries will offer the best flavor.
Variations: Experiment with different fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches to create a mixed fruit soup. You can also incorporate herbs like basil or mint for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions: Pair strawberry soup with a light salad, grilled chicken, or fish for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with sweet pastries or cakes for dessert.
Storage: Leftover strawberry soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as some separation may occur.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Vitamin A: 2% DV
- Vitamin C: 90% DV
- Calcium: 2% DV
- Iron: 4% DV
Strawberry soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a great choice for promoting overall health.
This soup is low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a light and refreshing treat.
This strawberry soup recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh, sweet flavors of strawberries while providing a unique twist to your meal repertoire.
Its vibrant color and delicious taste make it an excellent addition to any gathering or simply as a refreshing treat during the summer months. Enjoy the refreshing essence of this strawberry soup and let it brighten up your dining table!
Thanks for visiting Soups Recipe