Our CSA is ramping up and we’ve been getting loads of cucumbers. It’s such a great summer vegetable, love how refreshing and hydrating cucumbers can be. Afterall they are 95% water!
This chilled cucumber soup is sooooo easy to make. All you need is a blender and a few minutes. It tastes great room temperature or cold so this works well if you would like to make it in advance.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF CUCUMBERS
Did you know that cucumbers are actually fruit? There are many types of cucumbers. The most popular in the US are English, Kirby, and Persian cucumbers.
Have you ever seen a snake or Armenian cucumber? They’re long and twisted with a thin dark green skin. Great for pickling.
Japanese cucumbers, also called Kyuri have a thin forest green skin and prickly skin.
Kirby cucumbers are small are work great to make pickles. You can also use them in the cucumber soup!
Lemon cucumbers can sometimes be found at framers markets. They’re round and taste a tad sweet.
Persian cucumbers are now widely sold st supermarkets. They are short and thin and extra crunchy. Great for salads!
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CUCUMBERS
The oxidative stress caused by free radicals has been associated with autoimmune diseases. Cucumbers contain antioxidant such as flavonoids and tannins. These prevent the accumulation of harmful free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Cucumbers are known to be anti-inflammatory. Have you ever tried putting cold slices on puffy eyes? It works well to reduce puffiness. It can also alleviate sunburns.
WHAT TO SERVE THIS WITH
This summer is amazing on a hot summer day. Here are some dishes that would pair well it.
- Easy Paleo Slow Cooker Pulled Pork – You don’t even have to turn the oven or grill on for this one!
- Lemon Basil Halibut – Cooks super quickly in a pan or on the grill.
- Chicken Teriyaki Skewers – The cucumber compliments this Asian dish really well!
3 Minute Chilled Cucumber Soup
Ingredients
- 2 english cucumbers or kirby cucumbers (peeled, seeded, & chopped) (about 4 cups)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, plus more to taste
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 scallions or ½ white fresh onion
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients in a high-speed blender for about 1-2 minutes. Add additional water to thin if needed.
- Transfer to airtight container and chill or enjoy immediately.