Dive into the refreshing world of French cuisine with our delightful Cucumber Soup with Pistou! This vibrant dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. Perfect for warm days or as a light starter, this soup combines the crispness of cucumbers with the aromatic richness of homemade pistou. In just 45 minutes, you can whip up a bowl of this creamy goodness that serves four, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. Ready to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cucumbers, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup basil leaves
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by washing and peeling the cucumbers. Chop the cucumbers into roughly 1-inch pieces and finely dice the onion.
- In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the chopped cucumbers to the pot and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the cucumbers are very tender.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the pistou. In a food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, remaining olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until a smooth sauce forms.
- Remove the soup from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches.
- Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can thin it with additional vegetable broth.
- Ladle the soup into serving bowls and drizzle with the prepared pistou. Serve immediately, either warm or chilled.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your cucumbers and basil will greatly influence the flavor of your soup. Opt for firm, fresh cucumbers and vibrant green basil leaves for the best results.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a lighter soup, feel free to add more vegetable broth after blending to achieve your desired consistency.
- Chill for Extra Refreshment: This soup can be served warm or chilled. If you choose to serve it cold, allow it to cool in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a hint of garlic to your pistou.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with additional basil leaves, a drizzle of olive oil, or even a sprinkle of croutons for added texture.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just be sure to add the pistou right before serving to maintain its vibrant color and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
