Chilled Cucumber Gazpacho

There’s something magical about the simplicity of this chilled cucumber gazpacho. It brings together the garden-fresh flavor of cucumbers, the bright zing of lemon and vinegar, and the cooling creaminess of yogurt all blended into a silky soup. The herbal freshness of dill and mint elevates this dish into something truly revitalizing and elegant.

Perfect for a light summer lunch or a refreshing starter at a dinner party, this cold soup requires no cooking, making it an ideal choice for hot days. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a nutritious, hydrating option that delights the palate and looks beautiful in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle on some extra herbs, and serve it chilled for the ultimate warm weather treat.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped

• 1 small garlic clove

• 1 green onion, chopped

• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and chopped

• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Chopped fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil, for garnish

Directions:

1. Add cucumbers, garlic, green onion, jalapeño, dill, mint, lemon juice, and white wine vinegar to a blender.

2. Blend on high speed until smooth.

3. Add Greek yogurt and olive oil. Blend again until the mixture is creamy and fully combined.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Blend briefly to mix.

5. Chill the soup in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.

6. Serve cold, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Kcal: 130 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Chilled Cucumber Gazpacho: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Summer Dish

When the summer sun is high and the air is heavy with warmth, our appetites naturally lean toward lighter, more refreshing meals. Enter Chilled Cucumber Gazpacho, a revitalizing soup that celebrates the cooling powers of fresh produce, herbs, and yogurt. Unlike traditional gazpacho that relies on tomatoes as its base, this cucumber-forward variation is creamy, herby, and incredibly hydrating making it the ultimate no-cook solution for hot days.

Originally from the Andalusian region of southern Spain, gazpacho has long been a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. This chilled soup was developed out of necessity and practicality, offering a delicious way to use up fresh vegetables without turning on the stove. While the tomato version is the most iconic, modern variations have paved the way for inventive renditions like this cucumber version, which delivers a completely new taste profile with just as much nourishment and flair.

Why Cucumber Makes a Great Base for Cold Soup

Cucumbers are over 95% water, making them an ideal base for hydration-focused meals. Their mild, clean taste pairs beautifully with bold, aromatic herbs such as dill and mint. Plus, cucumbers are rich in antioxidants and vitamin K, while being low in calories and carbohydrates, making them a favorite among those seeking nutrient-dense, waistline friendly foods.

For this recipe, English cucumbers are a top pick due to their thin skin, low seed content, and delicate flavor. However, you can also use garden cucumbers just make sure to peel them and scoop out the seeds if they’re too bitter or large.

The Power of Fresh Herbs in Cold Soups

What takes this gazpacho from good to great is the thoughtful use of herbs. Dill offers a slightly sweet and grassy profile that complements the cool essence of cucumber. Mint, on the other hand, brings a sharp, awakening contrast that enlivens the soup. These herbs don’t just add flavor they provide therapeutic benefits as well. Mint can aid digestion and freshen breath, while dill is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and support for bone health.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also incorporate basil, cilantro, or parsley, though these would take the flavor in a different direction. Sticking to dill and mint keeps the profile clean, bright, and harmonious.

Greek Yogurt: Creaminess with a Tangy Edge

Many cold soups rely on bread or cream to provide body and texture. This cucumber gazpacho, however, leans on plain Greek yogurt to add richness while keeping things light and tangy. Greek yogurt not only enhances the texture but also brings probiotics into the mix beneficial bacteria that support gut health and immunity. For those following dairy-free or vegan diets, coconut yogurt or a cashew-based yogurt alternative can be used instead.

The creaminess of the yogurt balances the sharp notes of vinegar and lemon juice, offering a well-rounded taste experience. It also acts as an emulsifier, helping the olive oil blend seamlessly into the mix without separation.

No-Cook Recipes for Summer

One of the greatest advantages of this chilled cucumber gazpacho is that it requires zero cooking. That’s right, no heat, no stovetop, and no waiting for things to cool down. Everything goes into a blender or food processor, gets blitzed into a smooth and luscious puree, and is chilled until serving time. It’s an ideal option for busy home cooks, apartment dwellers with limited kitchen access, and anyone looking to beat the heat.

You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to develop and meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Chilled cucumber gazpacho is highly versatile in terms of presentation. You can serve it in a shallow bowl, a small glass, or even a chilled shot glass for an elegant appetizer at parties. Top it off with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs, and maybe even some edible flowers for a stunning summer presentation.

Pair this gazpacho with crusty artisan bread or herbed crostini for a more filling meal. It also works beautifully alongside grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or a light summer salad with watermelon and feta. If you’re serving a multi-course dinner, this gazpacho makes an excellent starter, whetting the palate without overwhelming it.

Nutrition and Dietary Benefits

This gazpacho is naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan with the right yogurt substitute. It’s gluten-free and low in both carbs and calories, making it suitable for a wide variety of diets. Whether you’re managing your weight, eating clean, or just trying to stay hydrated, this dish ticks all the right boxes.

Here’s a quick look at its nutritional highlights:

• Cucumbers: Hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and rich in antioxidants.

• Greek Yogurt: High in protein and probiotics.

• Fresh Herbs: Boost flavor and deliver key micronutrients.

• Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats.

• Lemon Juice & Vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness while aiding digestion.

Together, these ingredients form a power-packed bowl of goodness that’s as beneficial as it is beautiful.

Flavor Variations and Additions

If you’ve made this soup once and want to experiment the next time, here are some ways to switch it up without straying too far from the core concept:

• Add avocado: For a richer, creamier texture.

• Include green grapes or apples: For a hint of sweetness.

• Toss in spinach or arugula: To boost the green factor and introduce earthy tones.

• Top with diced radishes or cucumber chunks: For added texture and crunch.

• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce if you prefer a kick.

Entertaining with Gazpacho

Chilled cucumber gazpacho is a showstopper when it comes to summer entertaining. It’s elegant, easy to batch prepare, and suitable for serving in small portions, which makes it ideal for cocktail parties, bridal showers, or brunch events. Its pale green hue and velvety texture add a touch of sophistication to any table setting.

You can serve it in demitasse cups or mini mason jars for a trendy, Instagram-worthy presentation. Pair it with a citrus-based white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or a crisp cucumber gin cocktail for a well-rounded warm-weather dining experience.

Conclusion

Chilled cucumber gazpacho is much more than a bowl of cold soup it’s a celebration of summer’s finest produce, a testament to the power of simplicity, and a delicious nod to nourishing traditions from the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking for a hydrating lunch, a make-ahead appetizer, or a creative addition to your warm-weather recipe repertoire, this dish is the perfect place to start.

With no cooking required and just a handful of wholesome ingredients, this gazpacho proves that you don’t have to compromise on flavor or elegance when the weather heats up. Light, tangy, herbaceous, and undeniably refreshing, it’s the soup you’ll find yourself returning to again and again all season long.