Creamy Cucumber Soup with Toasted Pine Nuts

Written by Dietitian & Mom: Elis Halenko

Cool, creamy, and the ultimate refreshing summer bite.

Some days call for soup—but not the bubbling, steamy kind. Enter: chilled cucumber soup. This bowl is velvety, herby, and cooling, with a swirl of creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of golden pine nuts on top. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like you’re eating lunch on a shaded patio in the Mediterranean—yes please.

And the best part? No stove required. It’s totally blender-friendly, quick to whip up, and packed with nutrients like hydrating cucumber, probiotic-rich yogurt, and heart-healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

Cooling + hydrating—perfect for hot summer days
Can be made ahead and stored in the fridge
Full of gut-friendly ingredients like yogurt and fresh herbs
Great for lunch, a light dinner, or served in small glasses as a party appetizer
Toddler-friendly and endlessly customizable

Ingredients (Serves 2–3 as a main, 4–6 as a starter)

2 large English cucumbers, peeled and chopped
1 small garlic clove
1 1/2 cups plain Greek yogurt (or unsweetened plant-based yogurt for dairy-free)
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1-2 tbsp fresh dill or mint (or both!)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: a splash of cold water to thin, if needed
2–3 tbsp pine nuts, toasted in a dry skillet
Optional topping: extra herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a dollop of yogurt

Instructions:

1. Blend the Base

In a blender or food processor, combine cucumbers, yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. If too thick, add a splash of cold water until desired consistency is reached.

2. Chill the Soup

Transfer soup to a bowl or pitcher and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes the soup extra refreshing.

3. Toast the Pine Nuts

While the soup chills, toast pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Set aside.

4. Serve

Pour chilled soup into bowls. Top with toasted pine nuts, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh herbs. Add a swirl of yogurt if you’re feeling fancy.

Make It Your Own

Add avocado to the blender for a richer, creamier version
Sub in kefir for an ultra-tangy, probiotic-rich twist
Add a few ice cubes before blending for an instant chill

Tag Me in Your Bowls!

Try this creamy cucumber soup? I’d love to see your take! Tag me @thefoodstylistrd and show me how you’re keeping cool in the kitchen this summer 🥒💚