Summer isn't typically considered to be soup season, as a piping-hot meal is the last thing you want on a scorching night. But that doesn't mean you should write off this light and breezy category of food, there are plenty of chilled soup options out there, perfect for balmy nights as they provide much-needed internal air conditioning. Additionally, all of these cool creations can be made ahead (excluding garnish) and enjoyed throughout the week; as an added bonus, in many cases the flavors bloom and mellow when sent to the fridge to chill out overnight.
Southeast Asian Gazpacho
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Add a dose of Southeast Asian flair to this classic Spanish soup by introducing Thai basil, cilantro, ginger, and rice wine vinegar to the mix.
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No-Cook Avocado and Corn Soup
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Creamy crab-topped avocado soup can easily be adapted for vegans by omitting the briny crab garnish, making it a versatile dinner party appetizer.
Tomatoes, watermelon, cucumbers, onion, and jalapeños ensure that this chilled soup is anything but plain.
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Julia Child's Potage Parmentier
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This potato leek soup, from the grande dame of French cookery, may be enjoyed hot or chilled down, à la vichyssoise, with the addition of an extra pinch of salt and splash of cream, since flavors are muted when chilled.
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Cucumber Avocado Soup
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Pair lush, buttery avocado with crisp cukes for a creamy, green soup that you'll want to make time and time again.
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Blueberry-Watermelon Gazpacho
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Watermelon and blueberries might seem like an odd ingredients to star in a savory-leaning soup, but these juicy Summer fruits whirl up into a bright pink gazpacho that's absolutely worth making while they're in season.
Zucchini and basil team up for a protein packed soup that'll get you through the hottest of days.
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White Gazpacho
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Have you tried tomato-based gazpacho's creamy cousin, white gazpacho? If not, hustle to the kitchen pronto, this creamy almond- and garlic-based soup is worth trying at least once.