Creamy Avocado Soup
A smooth and creamy cold avocado soup, enhanced with Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, and a hint of spices. Perfect for summer, this quick and nutritious recipe is naturally low-carb, rich in healthy fats, and ideal for a light lunch, easy dinner, or meal prep.
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.
