Soup can be a quick and satisfying meal year-round. While winter is often associated with hearty, warming soups, summer offers an abundance of fresh produce that can be enjoyed with minimal cooking. Summer soups make the most of peak-season vegetables, such as corn, peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes, which are at their best during this time. Whether served hot or cold, a summer soup can be a refreshing option when you want something light and easy.
If you’re growing your own vegetables, this summery minestrone is a great way to use them. It features green beans, zucchini, summer squash, tomatoes, peppers, and basil, creating a soup that’s light yet satisfying.
Cheddar Corn Chowder
Corn chowder is a classic choice, especially with fresh summer corn. This version adds a touch of turmeric for color and a hint of earthiness, while shredded white cheddar and bacon make it rich and hearty.
Cantaloupe Soup
Cantaloupe can transform into a unique sweet-savory soup with the right seasoning. Choose the ripest cantaloupe and cucumber for the best flavor.
Chilled Raw Corn Soup
When corn is at its peak, it’s delicious raw. This chilled soup combines fresh corn with peppers and summer cherry tomatoes for a refreshing, no-cook option.
Cold Cucumber Soup
On very hot days, a cold soup can be perfect. This cucumber soup is served chilled, with tangy yogurt, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil for a cooling effect.
Watermelon Gazpacho
Watermelon’s sweetness pairs beautifully with savory tomato in this twist on classic gazpacho. Flavored with red wine vinegar and feta cheese, it’s a Mediterranean-inspired dish ideal for summer evenings.
Chilled Avocado Soup
Avoid heating up the kitchen with this cold avocado soup. It’s creamy and satisfying, perfect for a hot day.
Summer Chicken-Vegetable Soup
Use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken to quickly prepare this veggie-loaded soup. White chili beans add substance, while fresh corn, bell peppers, and summer squash provide seasonal flavor.
Summer Borscht
This chilled borscht, made with beets and thickened with yogurt, is cool, creamy, and vibrant. Fresh dill adds a touch of summer to this classic dish.
Zucchini Soup
If you have a surplus of zucchini, turn it into a savory soup blended with sautéed onions. Finish with a bright lemon oil and crispy pieces of fried zucchini.
Best Tomato Soup Ever
No summer is complete without a batch of tomato soup made with ripe summer tomatoes. This beloved recipe captures the essence of summer in every bite.