Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup

Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup Recipe - Vegetarian Mexican Food

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This soup is packed with fresh ingredients and can be made ahead of time for easy serving.

History

This recipe is inspired by the abundance of fresh produce found at farmers’ markets during the summer months. The combination of cucumbers, bell peppers, cilantro, and green chiles creates a vibrant and delicious soup that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

4 large cucumbers, peeled
4 green bell peppers, seeded
1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
2 cups diced scallions (about 2 bunches)
0.5 cup Mexican-style canned mild green chiles
2 cloves of garlic, mashed
1 tbsp white wine vinegar
1.5 tsp salt
0.25 cup olive oil
2 cups water
1.5 cups salsa for garnish

How to prepare

1. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise and slice them into chunks. Dice the green peppers. Place the cucumbers, peppers, cilantro, scallions, and green chiles in a blender or food processor, and process until smooth.
2. Add the garlic, vinegar, salt, and olive oil, and mix well. Add water, taste, and adjust the seasoning with salt and vinegar. Add more water to thin the soup if needed.
3. Fill two ice-cube trays with the soup and freeze overnight. Chill the remainder. Pack the frozen cubes with the chilled soup in large insulated containers. At serving time, pour the soup into cups and top with a large spoonful of salsa.

Variations

Add diced avocado or mango for a creamy and sweet twist.
Substitute the green bell peppers with roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor.
Stir in cooked shrimp or chicken for added protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel the cucumbers before blending to ensure a smooth texture.

- Adjust the amount of green chiles to suit your spice preference.

- For a creamier soup, add a dollop of Greek yogurt before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chilled salsa soup with a side of tortilla chips or crusty bread for a complete meal. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Use a high-speed blender or food processor to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the seasoning with salt and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use parsley or mint in place of cilantro for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute white wine vinegar with lime juice for a citrusy kick.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Freeze the soup in ice cube trays for a quick and easy grab-and-go option.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the chilled salsa soup in individual bowls or cups for a stylish presentation. - Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine or a refreshing cucumber mint cocktail for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- To reheat, simply pour the soup into a saucepan and heat over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

120

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 15g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 7g

Fats

- Total Fat: 7g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 70% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This soup is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy and nutritious option for a light meal or appetizer.

Summary

Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for summer entertaining. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to the local farmers’ market with a bounty of fresh vegetables. As I unpacked my bags and laid out my purchases on the kitchen counter, I couldn’t help but feel inspired by the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas of the produce before me.

I had always been a fan of salsa, with its zesty combination of tomatoes, onions, and peppers. But the idea of turning it into a chilled soup was something entirely new to me. I had never heard of such a dish before, and I was intrigued by the idea of combining the familiar flavors of salsa with the refreshing chill of a soup.

As I read through the recipe, I could see that it was a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a hot summer day. The ingredients were all items that I had on hand, thanks to my trip to the farmers’ market. I had ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and spicy jalapenos, all waiting to be transformed into this unique and delicious soup.

I followed the recipe carefully, chopping the vegetables and mixing them together with a blend of fresh herbs and spices. The scent of cilantro and cumin filled the air as I stirred the ingredients together, creating a fragrant and colorful mixture.

Once the soup was ready, I allowed it to chill in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify. When it was time to serve, I ladled the soup into bowls and garnished each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro.

The first spoonful of soup was a revelation. The cool, tangy flavors of the salsa combined perfectly with the creamy richness of the sour cream. Each bite was a burst of freshness and spice, a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I shared the soup with my family that evening, and they were just as impressed as I was. My husband declared it the best soup he had ever tasted, while my children eagerly asked for second helpings. I knew then that this recipe would become a regular feature on our summer menu.

In the weeks that followed, I made the Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup many times, each batch a little different from the last. I experimented with adding different vegetables and herbs, adjusting the spiciness to suit our tastes. Each time, the soup was met with rave reviews, and I enjoyed seeing the pleasure it brought to my loved ones.

As the years passed, the recipe became a staple in our household, a symbol of summer and abundance. I would make it whenever I visited the farmers’ market, picking out the freshest and ripest produce to use in the soup. It became a tradition to serve it at family gatherings and picnics, a dish that never failed to impress.

I often wonder about the origins of the Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup recipe. Was it created by a creative chef looking to put a new spin on a classic dish? Or was it passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to make it their own?

I may never know the answer, but I am grateful for the day I stumbled upon this recipe and decided to give it a try. It has brought joy and flavor to my kitchen, a reminder of the beauty and bounty of the farmers’ market and the joy of sharing good food with those we love.

And so, I will continue to make the Farmers’ Market Chilled Salsa Soup, savoring each spoonful and sharing it with those who mean the most to me. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of simple ingredients and the joy of cooking with love.