This chilled avocado soup is a luscious and refreshing dish perfect for warm days.
Packed with heart-healthy fats, plant-based protein from Greek yogurt, and a touch of fiber from fresh cilantro, it’s a light yet satisfying option.
Quick to prepare and naturally low in carbs and saturated fat, it’s an ideal choice for everyday lunches, simple dinners, or meal prep.
Creamy Avocado Soup
Equipment
- 1 Food processor or high-speed blender
- 1 spatula
- 4 serving bowls
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
Ingredients
- 1 medium Haas avocado diced (about 6 ounces without peel/seed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro coarsely chopped, plus extra leaves for garnish
- 1 teaspoon fresh garlic minced
- 1 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Diamond Crystal, or ½ teaspoon other salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- ½ cup cold water plus more if needed
Instructions
- Prepare the Avocado: Carefully select a ripe Haas avocado for this recipe, as it provides the creamiest texture and rich flavor. Slice the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Dice the avocado into small, even cubes to ensure smooth blending later. Place the diced avocado into the bowl of your food processor or high-speed blender.
- Add the Citrus Brightness: Measure one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and add it to the avocado. The lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the avocado from turning brown. Make sure to distribute the juice evenly over the avocado for a consistent taste in every bite.
- Introduce Fresh Herbs and Aromatics: Coarsely chop ¼ cup of fresh cilantro and sprinkle it into the processor. Add one teaspoon of minced fresh garlic. These ingredients give the soup a bright, herbaceous aroma and a subtle kick. Take a moment to gently mix them with the avocado using a spatula before blending to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Incorporate the Creamy Base: Spoon in one cup of full-fat Greek yogurt. This adds a silky, creamy texture while providing plant-based protein and a slightly tangy flavor. Ensure the yogurt is full-fat to achieve the rich consistency the soup is known for.
- Season the Soup Perfectly: Add one teaspoon of kosher salt (or half a teaspoon of another salt, like Morton kosher salt), ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, ¼ teaspoon ground cumin, and ⅛ teaspoon of cayenne pepper if using. These spices and seasoning layers balance the creaminess with a mild warmth and depth. Gently fold them in with a spatula before blending to ensure even seasoning.
- Add the Liquid for Smoothness: Pour in ½ cup of cold water to help create a smooth, velvety texture. If needed, you can add a little more water later to adjust the consistency. Cold water ensures the soup stays refreshingly chilled without diluting the flavor.
- Blend to Perfection: Secure the lid on your food processor or blender and process the mixture for about one minute. Pause halfway through to scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure every piece of avocado, herb, and yogurt is fully incorporated. Blend until the soup is completely smooth, silky, and free of any lumps.
- Adjust the Consistency: Check the thickness of the soup. If it feels too thick, gradually add up to ¼ cup more cold water, blending again after each addition. The ideal consistency should be creamy but pourable, perfect for serving in bowls.
- Chill for Optimal Flavor: Transfer the blended soup to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to firm up slightly, resulting in a more flavorful and refreshing soup. While it’s possible to serve immediately, chilling enhances the taste dramatically.
- Serve and Garnish Elegantly: After chilling, give the soup a gentle stir. Divide it evenly among four serving bowls. Garnish each bowl with a few fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and fresh herbal aroma. Optionally, a light drizzle of olive oil or a few slices of avocado can be added for extra visual appeal and richness. Serve immediately while cold and enjoy the creamy, refreshing flavors.
- Storage and Reuse Tips: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. Before serving, remix gently. If the soup thickens during storage, add 1–2 tablespoons of cold water to bring it back to the ideal consistency. This makes it perfect for quick meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
Notes
- Always choose a ripe Haas avocado for the creamiest texture and richest flavor. Avoid underripe or overly soft avocados, as they can make the soup either too firm or too watery.
- Full-fat Greek yogurt works best for a naturally creamy texture and slight tang. If using regular yogurt, reduce added water to maintain the desired consistency.
- Allowing the soup to chill for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor and gives it a smooth, refreshing texture. While it’s tempting to serve immediately, refrigeration is highly recommended.
- This recipe is naturally low in carbs, rich in healthy fats, and provides a moderate amount of plant-based protein, making it ideal for a light, nutritious meal.
- Leftovers can be kept refrigerated in an airtight container for 1–2 days. Stir well before serving and thin with a little water if the soup thickens.
Chef’s Secrets: Tips for Perfect Soup
The key to a silky, flavorful avocado soup lies in ingredient quality and careful blending.
Using ripe Haas avocados ensures maximum creaminess, while fresh cilantro and lemon juice elevate the overall brightness of the dish.
For the smoothest texture, process the ingredients slowly, scraping down the sides of the blender or food processor periodically.
Don’t skip the chilling step—resting the soup allows the flavors to harmonize and the creamy consistency to firm up.
For an extra touch, you can add a small drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving to deepen the flavor and give a subtle sheen.
Serving Suggestions: Creative Presentation Ideas
This avocado soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with light, fresh accompaniments.
Serve it with a crisp green salad, toasted whole-grain bread, or a few crunchy tortilla chips for a satisfying meal.
A sprinkle of extra cilantro, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a small dollop of yogurt can elevate the presentation.
For entertaining, serve in small bowls or glasses as an elegant appetizer.
Its creamy, chilled texture makes it perfect for summer lunches, casual dinners, or as a refreshing starter at a dinner party.
Storage Tips: Keep Soup Fresh Longer
To maintain the creamy texture and bright flavor, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
If it thickens during storage, simply stir in 1–2 tablespoons of cold water to restore the original consistency.
Avoid freezing, as this can alter the delicate texture of the avocado and yogurt.
Always taste and adjust seasoning after chilling, as cold temperatures can slightly mute flavors.
Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this soup for meal prep or quick lunches without compromising on freshness or flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different avocado variety?
While you can substitute other avocados, Haas avocados are recommended for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Other varieties may result in a slightly watery or less smooth soup.
2. Is this soup vegan-friendly?
This version uses Greek yogurt, which is not vegan. You can replace it with unsweetened plant-based yogurt for a vegan-friendly alternative, though the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.
3. How can I make it spicier?
Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce while blending. You can also sprinkle a small pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes on top when serving for a subtle heat boost.
4. Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! Prepare and blend the soup up to one day in advance. Keep it chilled in an airtight container and stir before serving. Add a little water if it thickens too much.
5. Can I serve this soup warm?
This recipe is designed as a chilled soup for a refreshing, light meal. Serving it warm is not recommended, as heating may alter the creamy texture and slightly reduce the fresh flavors of avocado and cilantro.
