Cool Cucumber Basil Soup
This light and flavorful cucumber basil soup is an inexpensive, delicious way to cool down. // Photograph by Maura Manzo
As the temperature rose to record levels last week, we heard a lot about the importance of staying hydrated in the heat. But there are other great ways to cool down and replenish the body other than by simply drinking water, and this soup is one of them! It will refresh your system and your spirit. Even better: It takes barely any time to make and you won’t need to heat up the kitchen by turning on your stove or oven. Perfect!
Cool Cucumber Basil Soup
Serves 4
Ingredients
3 large English cucumbers, peeled and seeded
2 green onions, trimmed and roughly chopped
2 c. organic, low-fat plain yogurt
1 clove garlic
1/2 c. basil, loose
1/3 c. flat-leaf parsley, loose
Juice from 1/4 lemon
Add all ingredients to food processor and puree until smooth and creamy. Chill for 2 hours. (If you wish to serve immediately, add 1 cup of ice to food processor when you puree the rest of the ingredients.)
Nutrition per serving: 108 calories, 2.5 g. fat, 1 g. sat. fat, 15 g. carbs, 2 g. fiber, 8 g. protein, 7.5 mg. cholesterol, 95 mg. sodium
Shopping tip: If you’re looking to stay healthy on a budget, this is a great recipe to add to your repertoire. Cashing in at under $12 for all the above ingredients (with leftovers to boot), this summer soup won’t fry your bank account. Save even more money by using fresh basil and parsley from your home garden.
Food fact: Cucumbers contain silica, an essential mineral for collagen production, which helps to improve the complexion and the health of the skin. Cucumbers can also be used topically. Try laying a slice over your eyes the next time they’re puffy, or over a minor burn to relieve pain.
Maura Manzo is a health coach and yoga instructor at RYAH Yoga and Health in Conshohocken. To learn more about her classes and workshops, visit mauramanzo.com or ryahyoga.com. Read her full bio here.
