Our Best Summer Soup Recipes

January 27, 2025

Summer soups offer a refreshing way to enjoy seasonal ingredients.

These light and tasty recipes are perfect for warm days when you want something satisfying yet not too heavy.

From chilled gazpacho to vegetable-packed broths, there’s a summer soup for every taste.

You’ll find soups that highlight fresh produce like tomatoes, zucchini, and corn in many summer recipes.

Some are served cold for a cooling effect, while others can be enjoyed hot or at room temperature.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a starter for a summer dinner party, these soups provide delicious options to beat the heat.

1. Gazpacho

Gazpacho is a chilled Spanish soup perfect for hot summer days.

You can make it with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and garlic. It’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require cooking.

To make gazpacho, blend fresh vegetables until smooth.

Chill the soup for a few hours to enhance the flavors. You can serve it in bowls or small glasses as an appetizer.

For the best taste, use high-quality, in-season tomatoes. Local farmers’ markets often have great options.

You can also add other summer vegetables like bell peppers for extra flavor.

Gazpacho is healthy and refreshing. It’s a great way to cool off and enjoy summer produce.

2. Vichyssoise

Vichyssoise is a chilled summer soup that’s perfect for hot days.

You’ll love its creamy texture and subtle flavors.

This French-inspired dish combines leeks, potatoes, cream, and chicken broth. The ingredients are cooked together and blended until smooth.

To make vichyssoise, start by sautéing leeks and onions. Add potatoes and broth, then simmer until tender. Blend the mixture and stir in cream.

Chill the soup thoroughly before serving. Garnish with chopped chives for a pop of color and flavor. You can adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed.

Vichyssoise is traditionally served cold, but you can enjoy it warm too. It’s a versatile soup that works well as an appetizer or light meal.

3. Cold Cucumber Soup

Cold cucumber soup is a refreshing summer dish. You can make it in just 10 minutes.

Peel and seed cucumbers, then blend them with onion, buttermilk, and sour cream.

Add olive oil, dill, salt, and pepper for flavor.

Chill the soup for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.

Serve in bowls with fresh herbs and sliced cucumbers on top. For extra crunch, add croutons or nuts.

You can make it vegan by using plant-based yogurt instead of dairy.

This cool soup works well as a starter or side dish. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want something light and refreshing.

4. Watermelon Gazpacho

Watermelon gazpacho offers a refreshing twist on the classic cold soup. This summer favorite blends sweet watermelon with savory ingredients for a unique flavor.

To make it, you’ll need watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers. Add some red onion and jalapeño for a hint of spice. Blend most ingredients until smooth, reserving some chopped veggies for texture.

Season your gazpacho with lime juice, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of salt. For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint.

Chill the soup before serving to enhance its coolness. Watermelon gazpacho makes a perfect light lunch or appetizer on hot summer days.

5. Chilled Avocado Soup

Chilled avocado soup is a refreshing summer dish. You can make it in just a few minutes using your blender.

The main ingredients are ripe avocados, cucumbers, and Greek yogurt. Add fresh herbs like basil and parsley for extra flavor.

To make the soup, blend all ingredients until smooth.

Chill it in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving.

Garnish your soup with a drizzle of olive oil, sliced cucumber, and fresh basil leaves. For added crunch, you can top it with crispy bacon bits.

This cool and creamy soup is perfect for hot summer days. It’s packed with healthy fats and fiber from the avocados.

6. Peach and Tomato Soup

Peach and tomato soup is a refreshing summer dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. You’ll love the blend of juicy peaches and ripe tomatoes in this chilled soup.

To make it, chop fresh peaches and tomatoes. Add some olive oil, onion, and garlic for extra flavor. Blend everything until smooth.

Chill the soup before serving. You can garnish it with a dollop of yogurt or some fresh herbs. This light soup is perfect for hot days when you want something cool and tasty.

7. Green Pea Soup with Mint

Green pea soup with mint is a refreshing summer dish that’s quick and easy to make. You can use fresh or frozen peas for this recipe.

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil or butter. Add the peas and vegetable broth, then simmer until the peas are tender.

Blend the soup until smooth, adding fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor.

You can serve this soup hot or chilled, making it perfect for any summer day.

For extra texture, set aside some whole peas to add as a garnish. A dollop of cream or yogurt on top can add richness if you like.

8. Chilled Corn Soup

Chilled corn soup is a refreshing summer dish that’s perfect for hot days. You can make it with fresh or frozen corn kernels.

Blend the corn with milk or cream for a smooth texture.

Add some garlic, onion, and herbs for extra flavor.

Chill the soup in the fridge for at least 4 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Top your chilled corn soup with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. You can also sprinkle on some chopped chives or cilantro. For a bit of crunch, add some croutons or toasted corn kernels.

Serve this cool and creamy soup as a starter or light lunch. It’s a tasty way to enjoy summer’s sweet corn harvest.

9. Coconut Lemongrass Soup

Coconut lemongrass soup is a refreshing summer dish that combines creamy coconut milk with zesty lemongrass. You’ll love its light, tropical flavors.

To make this soup, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a large pot. Add vegetable broth, coconut milk, and lemongrass stalks. Simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors.

For extra taste, try adding Thai red curry paste or sliced chili peppers. You can also include veggies like bell peppers or parsnips for more texture.

Finish your soup with a splash of lime juice and some fresh Thai basil leaves.

This easy recipe is perfect for warm days when you want something soothing yet light.

10. Melon and Mint Soup

Melon and mint soup is a cool, refreshing treat for hot summer days. You can make it with watermelon or cantaloupe. Blend the melon with fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor.

Add a splash of lime juice to brighten the taste. For creaminess, mix in some yogurt or coconut milk. Chill the soup in the fridge before serving.

Garnish with extra mint leaves and melon balls.

This no-cook recipe is quick and easy to prepare. It’s perfect as a light appetizer or dessert on warm evenings.

11. Cucumber Melon Soup

Cucumber melon soup is a cool and refreshing choice for hot summer days. You’ll love how this chilled soup combines the crisp freshness of cucumbers with the sweet flavor of melon.

To make it, blend cucumbers, honeydew or cantaloupe, and fresh herbs like mint or basil. Add a splash of lime juice for brightness. You can include yogurt or buttermilk for extra creaminess.

Chill the soup for at least an hour before serving.

Top with a drizzle of olive oil and some fresh herb leaves. This light soup works great as an appetizer or a light lunch on scorching afternoons.

12. Mango and Avocado Soup

Mango and avocado soup is a refreshing summer dish. You can enjoy it cold on hot days.

This soup blends sweet mango with creamy avocado. It’s smooth and satisfying.

To make it, puree ripe mangoes and avocados. Add lime juice for a tangy kick. You can also mix in some coconut milk for extra richness.

Chill the soup before serving.

Top it with fresh cilantro or mint leaves. For a fun twist, add a spoonful of mango salsa on top.

This easy no-cook soup is perfect for quick summer meals. It’s both tasty and nutritious.

13. Chilled Tomato Basil Soup

You’ll love this refreshing summer soup. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something light and cool.

Start with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a touch of orange juice for brightness. Blend these ingredients with some water, sugar, and salt.

Simmer the mixture for about 25 minutes to meld the flavors. Then puree it until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.

Chill the soup in the fridge before serving.

Garnish with a basil leaf or a drizzle of cream if you like. This easy recipe is great for lunch or as a starter for dinner.

Papaya and strawberries summer soup

14. Papaya Lime Soup

This cool summer soup blends tropical flavors for a refreshing treat. You’ll need ripe papayas, fresh lime juice, and a few other simple ingredients.

Peel and dice the papayas, then blend them until smooth. Mix in lime juice, a touch of sugar, and water to thin the consistency.

Chill the soup for at least an hour before serving.

Garnish with mint leaves and a sprinkle of lime zest for extra zing.

This no-cook recipe is perfect for hot days. The natural sweetness of papaya pairs well with tangy lime, creating a light and tasty summer soup.

15. Zucchini Basil Soup

Zucchini basil soup is a perfect summer dish. It’s light, refreshing, and easy to make.

Start by sautéing diced onions and celery in olive oil. Add chopped zucchini and cook until tender.

Pour in some vegetable broth and simmer. Blend the mixture until smooth, then stir in fresh basil.

You can serve this soup hot or cold.

Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and extra basil leaves.

This soup is versatile too. Try adding corn or tomatoes for extra flavor. It’s a great way to use up extra zucchini from your garden.

16. Chilled Carrot and Ginger Soup

Chilled carrot and ginger soup is a refreshing summer dish. You can prepare it ahead of time and serve it cold on hot days.

To make this soup, start by cooking carrots, onions, and ginger in vegetable broth. Blend the mixture until smooth. Add coconut milk for creaminess and lemon juice for brightness.

Chill the soup in the fridge before serving.

You can garnish it with fresh herbs like cilantro for extra flavor.

This soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. Carrots provide vitamin A, while ginger aids digestion. It’s a light and healthy option for summer meals.

17. Pineapple and Basil Soup

Pineapple and basil soup is a cool treat for hot summer days. You can make this refreshing soup in just minutes.

Start by blending frozen pineapple chunks with milk, cream, and yogurt. Add a touch of sugar to balance the tartness. Pour the smooth mixture into bowls.

Top your soup with fresh pineapple pieces and basil leaves.

The sweet fruit pairs nicely with the herbal basil flavor. This chilled soup is perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

18. Creamy Chilled Asparagus Soup

Creamy chilled asparagus soup is a refreshing summer dish. You can make it easily with fresh asparagus, onions, and garlic.

Start by sautéing chopped onions and minced garlic in butter. Add asparagus and cook until tender. Blend the mixture with broth and cream for a smooth texture.

Chill the soup in the fridge for a few hours before serving.

You can garnish it with a dollop of sour cream or some crispy asparagus tips.

This cool and creamy soup is perfect for hot days. It’s light yet satisfying, making it a great starter or light meal option.

19. Chilled Strawberry Soup

Chilled strawberry soup is a refreshing treat for hot summer days. You can make this sweet and tangy dish with just a few ingredients.

Start by blending fresh strawberries with Greek yogurt or cream. Add a splash of Riesling wine for extra flavor.

Sweeten the mixture with a bit of sugar to taste. Chill the soup for at least two hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the soup to cool completely.

When ready to eat, pour the soup into bowls. Top with a dollop of yogurt and some fresh mint leaves for a pretty garnish.

A drizzle of olive oil and cracked black pepper can add depth to the flavor.

20. Cold Beet Soup

Cold beet soup is a perfect summer dish. You’ll love its bright pink color and refreshing taste on hot days.

To make it, start with cooked beets. Grate them and mix with buttermilk or kefir. Add diced cucumber for crunch.

For extra flavor, include some lemon juice and vinegar. Hard-boiled eggs make a great topping. This soup is easy to customize.

Try adding herbs like dill or chives. You can also use yogurt instead of buttermilk for a thicker texture.

Serve your cold beet soup chilled. It’s a light meal that will cool you down and fill you up.

21. Chilled Broccoli Soup

Chilled broccoli soup is a refreshing summer dish. You can make it easily with a few simple ingredients.

Start by chopping a large head of broccoli. Cook it in vegetable stock until tender. Add a peeled apple for a touch of sweetness.

Blend half the mixture until smooth. Repeat with the other half. Stir in lemon juice for brightness.

Chill the soup in the fridge before serving. For extra creaminess, you can add cashews while blending. Leave them out for a lighter version.

Serve this cool soup as a starter or light meal. It’s perfect for hot summer days when you want something nutritious but not heavy.

The Benefits of Summer Soups

Summer soups offer great nutrition and help you stay cool. They’re packed with fresh ingredients and flavors perfect for warm weather.

Nutritional Advantages

Summer soups are full of vitamins and minerals. They often use fresh fruits and veggies that are in season. This means you get the best nutrition and taste.

Many summer soups have lots of fiber. Fiber helps keep you full and aids digestion. It’s good for your gut health too.

Some cold soups use yogurt as a base. This adds protein and probiotics to your meal. Probiotics support your immune system.

Hot summer soups can include lean proteins like chicken or fish. These give you energy and help build muscle.

Hydration and Refreshment

Cold summer soups are great for staying hydrated. They often have high water content from ingredients like cucumbers or tomatoes.

These soups can cool you down on hot days. They’re refreshing and light, perfect for when you don’t want heavy meals.

Hot soups can make you sweat a little. This might seem odd, but it actually helps cool your body down.

Many summer soups use herbs like mint or basil. These add flavor and can be naturally cooling.

You can enjoy summer soups as a light meal or snack. They’re easy to pack for picnics or beach trips too.

Choosing Ingredients for Summer Soups

Fresh, seasonal produce is key for tasty summer soups. Pick ripe vegetables and herbs to create light, refreshing flavors. Balance different tastes to make your soups pop.

Seasonal Vegetables and Herbs

Look for peak-season veggies at farmers markets or grocery stores. Tomatoes, cucumbers, corn, and zucchini are great summer soup bases. Add bell peppers, carrots, or celery for crunch and color.

Fresh herbs boost flavor without adding heaviness. Try basil, mint, cilantro, or dill. These herbs work well in both hot and cold soups.

Don’t forget fruit! Melons, berries, or stone fruits can add sweetness to chilled soups.

Balancing Flavors

Mix sweet, sour, salty, and savory elements for well-rounded soups.

Use lemon juice or vinegar to brighten flavors. A pinch of salt can enhance sweetness in fruit soups.

For creamy soups, try Greek yogurt or coconut milk instead of heavy cream. They add richness without weighing down the soup.

Spices like ginger, cumin, or red pepper flakes can give your soup a flavor kick.

Start with small amounts and adjust to taste.

Remember to taste as you go. You can always add more seasoning, but it’s hard to take it away.