When temperatures rise above +30°C (86°F), the body craves light meals and plenty of hydration. That’s why cold soups become a real lifesaver in summer. They help maintain water balance, are rich in vitamins, and provide refreshing relief even on the hottest days.
Today, cold soups are gaining popularity all over the world. Beyond traditional Ukrainian cold borscht and Russian-style okroshka, home cooks increasingly enjoy Spanish gazpacho, Bulgarian tarator, and modern variations made with avocado, cucumber, watermelon, and melon.
Why Cold Soups Are Good for Summer
- help prevent dehydration
- are rich in fiber
- support healthy weight control
- feel light and refreshing
- are quick and easy to prepare
- use seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs
1. Classic Ukrainian Cold Borscht
Ingredients
- beets – 3
- eggs – 4
- cucumbers – 3
- kefir – 1 liter
- water – 300 ml
- dill – 1 bunch
- green onions – 1 bunch
- salt – to taste
Instructions
- Boil the beets until tender.
- Grate them on a coarse grater.
- Boil the eggs hard and dice them.
- Chop the cucumbers.
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Pour in kefir and water.
- Chill for 2 hours before serving.
Calories: approximately 70 kcal per 100 g.
2. Spanish Gazpacho
One of the most famous cold soups in the world, traditionally made without cooking.
Ingredients
- tomatoes – 1 kg
- cucumber – 1
- red bell pepper – 1
- onion – 1/2
- garlic – 2 cloves
- olive oil – 4 tbsp
- wine vinegar – 2 tbsp
- salt – to taste
Instructions
- Chop all vegetables.
- Blend until smooth.
- Add olive oil and vinegar.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
- Serve with croutons.
3. Cucumber Gazpacho with Avocado
A modern favorite combining cucumber and avocado for a creamy texture.
Ingredients
- cucumbers – 4
- avocados – 2
- lime – 1
- natural yogurt – 200 ml
- dill
- salt
Blend all ingredients until smooth and chill for 1 hour.
4. Bulgarian Tarator
Ingredients
- cucumbers – 3
- natural yogurt – 500 ml
- dill – 1 bunch
- garlic – 2 cloves
- walnuts – 50 g
- salt
Grate cucumbers, add chopped walnuts, herbs, and yogurt. Mix well and chill.
5. Okroshka on Kefir
Ingredients
- potatoes – 4
- eggs – 4
- cucumbers – 3
- radishes – 200 g
- fresh herbs
- kefir – 1 liter
Chop all ingredients into small cubes, pour over kefir, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
6. Watermelon Gazpacho
One of the most popular modern summer soups.
Ingredients
- seedless watermelon – 700 g
- cucumber – 1
- bell pepper – 1
- lime juice
- mint
Blend all ingredients and chill before serving.
7. Cold Pea and Mint Soup
Ingredients
- green peas – 400 g
- mint – 10 leaves
- yogurt – 150 ml
- water – 200 ml
Boil peas for 5 minutes, cool, then blend with other ingredients.
8. Avocado and Lime Soup
Ingredients
- avocados – 3
- cream – 150 ml
- lime – 1
- herbs
Blend until smooth and serve very cold.
9. Melon Cold Soup
Ingredients
- melon – 600 g
- honey – 1 tbsp
- mint
- lemon juice
Blend and chill for 2 hours. It tastes like a light restaurant-style dessert.
10. Lithuanian Šaltibarščiai
A traditional Lithuanian cold beet soup that is becoming popular in Ukraine and beyond.
Ingredients
- beets – 4
- kefir – 1 liter
- cucumbers – 2
- eggs – 4
- dill
Serve with hot baby potatoes.
11. Strawberry Cold Soup
Ingredients
- strawberries – 500 g
- yogurt – 300 ml
- honey – 1 tbsp
- mint
Perfect for a light and healthy dessert or kids’ menu.
12. White Gazpacho with Grapes and Almonds
A traditional Spanish soup that is experiencing a modern comeback among healthy food lovers.
Ingredients
- white grapes – 300 g
- almonds – 150 g
- cucumber – 1
- olive oil – 3 tbsp
- water – 300 ml
Blend until creamy and chill before serving.
Chef Tips
- Serve soups in pre-chilled bowls
- Add ice cubes just before serving
- Use seasonal vegetables and fresh herbs
- Chill for at least 1–2 hours for deeper flavor
Conclusion
Cold soups are not only a way to stay refreshed in summer but also a great opportunity to enrich your diet with seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Try classic cold borscht, trendy cucumber gazpacho, or refreshing watermelon soup — and discover a whole new world of summer cuisine.
