As the days grow warmer and the sun casts its golden rays, I find myself craving light, vibrant meals that are both nourishing and refreshing. Enter my Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup—a delightful bowl of greens that tastes as good as it looks! One sip, and you’ll be greeted by the fresh crunch of cucumber, the sweetness of peas, and the mild earthiness of lettuce, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
This soup checks all the boxes for a busy day: it’s simple to prepare, low in calories, and packs in three of your five-a-day. Whether you enjoy it hot on a cool evening or chilled for a breezy summer lunch, this vibrant concoction bursts with health benefits and satisfies your taste buds. Plus, it requires minimal cooking and can be whipped up in no time, making it the perfect antidote to meal prep fatigue. So grab your blender, and let’s dive into this refreshing culinary experience!
Why is Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup a Must-Try?
Vibrant and Refreshing: This soup’s vibrant green color makes it a feast for the eyes, perfect for elevating any summer table.
Healthy Ingredients: With cucumbers, peas, and lettuce, you’re not just indulging but nourishing your body with vital nutrients.
Quick and Easy: Whip it up in under 30 minutes—ideal for weekdays when time is scarce yet health is a priority.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it hot or cold; it’s a flexible dish that satisfies any craving.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The unique blend of sweetness from peas with cucumber’s crispness makes this soup a hit among family and friends!
Low-Calorie Delight: At only 156 calories per serving, you can relish this deliciousness without the guilt!
Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Rapeseed Oil – Provides a base for sautéing; substitute with olive oil if preferred.
• Spring Onions – Adds a mild onion flavor; use regular onions if unavailable.
For the Soup
• Cucumber – Contributes freshness and light texture; can replace with zucchini for a different flavor.
• Large Round Lettuce – Adds volume and mild flavor; substitute with another leafy green like spinach.
• Frozen Peas (225g) – Provides substance and sweetness; fresh peas can be used; ensure they are cooked until tender.
• Vegetable Bouillon (4 tsp) – Enhances flavor of the soup; low-sodium versions available for health-conscious choices.
For Optional Creaminess
• Bio Yogurt (4 tbsp, optional) – Adds creaminess; can be substituted with a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
For Serving
• Rye Bread (4 slices) – Serves as a side accompaniment; any whole-grain bread works as a substitute.
This Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup is not just a quick meal; it’s a burst of summer in a bowl, perfect for those warm days!
How to Make Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup
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Boil water: Start by boiling 1.4 liters of water in a kettle. This will be the base for your delicious soup.
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Heat oil: In a large non-stick frying pan, heat the rapeseed oil over medium heat. Allow it to shimmer slightly before adding your vegetables.
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Cook onions: Add the chopped spring onions to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become soft and translucent.
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Add veggies: Toss in the chopped cucumber, lettuce, and frozen peas, then pour in the boiled water. Stir everything together, ensuring the veggies are well mixed.
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Season and simmer: Stir in the vegetable bouillon, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender but maintain their vibrant green hues.
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Blend smooth: Use a hand blender to blitz the mixture until it reaches a velvety smooth consistency. This is the magic moment where flavors meld beautifully!
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve either hot or chilled. If you like, top with a dollop of yogurt, and enjoy alongside slices of rye bread for a wholesome meal.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like mint or basil for an added flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup
- Fridge: Keep your soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures freshness and preserves the vibrant flavors of your cucumber, pea & lettuce soup.
- Freezer: To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Serving Tips: Enjoy the soup chilled for a refreshing summer dish or warm it up as a cozy starter on cooler days.
Make Ahead Options
These Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup components are perfect for busy meal prep! You can chop the spring onions and cucumber, as well as wash and tear the lettuce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to retain their freshness. Additionally, cook the peas (if using fresh) ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to add to the soup. When it’s time to enjoy your soup, just heat everything in a pot, add the vegetable bouillon and the boiled water, then simmer for 10 minutes. Blitz to achieve that velvety smooth texture, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup
- Don’t Overcook: Ensure not to overcook the vegetables to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients. A quick simmer is best!
- Smooth Consistency: Use a good quality hand blender for a silky smooth texture in your cucumber, pea & lettuce soup.
- Storage Wisdom: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days to enjoy maximum freshness.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving! The right balance enhances the fresh flavors beautifully.
- Garnish Ideas: Elevate presentation and flavor with fresh herbs like mint or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this refreshing dish even more your own!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like basil or mint for a fragrant boost; a sprinkle can transform the flavor profile to something extraordinary.
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Spicy Kick: For warmth, stir in a pinch of chili flakes or freshly grated ginger during cooking; this will add depth and excitement to each bite.
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Creamy Alternative: Swap bio yogurt for coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option that brings a subtle sweetness to the soup; it’s a creamy delight!
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Veggie Mix-Up: Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or tender green beans into the mix for texture and variety; each combined flavor tells its own delicious story.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or slivered almonds for a lovely crunch; it enhances the soup’s texture while providing a nutty flavor contrast.
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Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon juice or zest added just before serving brightens the flavors beautifully; it’s like sunshine in a bowl!
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Increased Sweetness: Stir in a splash of apple or carrot juice during blending to sweeten the soup naturally without compromising its freshness; it’s a lovely surprise for your palate.
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Cheesy Finish: Add grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast on top before serving if you love umami flavors; this gives your soup a delightful savory enhancement.
What to Serve with Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup?
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that bring out the soup’s fresh flavors.
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Light Side Salad: A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the soup’s freshness beautifully.
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Crusty Whole-Grain Bread: The hearty texture adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite of soup even more enjoyable.
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Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Smoky and slightly charred vegetables enhance the mild flavors of the soup, perfect for a summer meal.
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Minty Yogurt Dip: A refreshing yogurt dip with fresh mint can add an exciting twist and complement the soup’s taste.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc adds a touch of elegance, balancing the soup’s lightness perfectly.
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Herb-Infused Water: Serve your meal with infused water featuring cucumber and mint, keeping the refreshing theme alive!
Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting cucumbers?
Absolutely! Choose cucumbers that are firm with smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as this can indicate overripeness. Fresh cucumbers will have a bright color and feel heavy for their size.
How can I store leftover Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup?
To keep your soup fresh, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3 days. Just be sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can dilute the flavors.
Can I freeze Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup?
Very! To freeze, let the soup cool completely and then ladle it into freezer-safe containers. Leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. This soup is ideal for freezing—just remember to label it with the date; it will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and reheat slowly on the stove.
What if my soup is too thick?
If you find that your soup is thicker than you’d like, no worries! Simply add a little more warm water or vegetable broth to thin it out. Start with small amounts, mixing well until you reach your desired consistency. Tasting as you go will help ensure the flavors remain balanced.
Are there any dietary allergens in this soup?
This recipe is quite friendly for vegetarians, but if you’re allergic to dairy, you may want to skip the yogurt topping or substitute it with a dairy-free yogurt option. Additionally, check the labels of your vegetable bouillon to ensure it’s free from allergens you might be sensitive to.
Can I add other vegetables to the Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup?
The more the merrier! Feel free to mix in other seasonal veggies like zucchini or green beans. Just cut them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. If you’re looking for extra flavor, adding fresh herbs like basil or mint can take this soup to the next level!
Cool and Creamy Cucumber, Pea & Lettuce Soup for Summer Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by boiling 1.4 liters of water in a kettle.
- In a large non-stick frying pan, heat the rapeseed oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped spring onions and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Toss in the chopped cucumber, lettuce, and frozen peas; pour in the boiled water and stir.
- Stir in the vegetable bouillon, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Use a hand blender to blend the mixture until smooth.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot or chilled, topping with yogurt if desired.