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Soup might not be the first thing that comes to mind in summer, but some soups are made for warm weather.
From chilled classics to light brothy bowls, these 13 summer soup recipes are refreshing, satisfying, and great when you want something nourishing without being too heavy.
1. Chilled Cucumber Yogurt Soup
This cold soup is my go-to when it’s too hot to cook. I blend cucumbers with Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, and lemon juice for a creamy, cooling bowl that feels light and hydrating. It’s great as a starter or light lunch.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Let it chill for at least an hour before serving so the flavors can develop. Add a drizzle of olive oil and a few crushed pistachios on top for a little texture.
Get the Chilled Cucumber Yogurt Soup recipe.
2. Tomato Basil Gazpacho
When tomatoes are in season, I make this on repeat. I blend ripe tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, garlic, and olive oil with a splash of vinegar. It’s cold, tangy, and full of fresh flavor—perfect for a hot summer night.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Strain the soup after blending for a smoother texture and garnish with fresh basil and croutons for contrast.
Get the Tomato Basil Gazpacho recipe
3. Summer Corn Chowder
Sweet corn is the star here. I sauté onions, potatoes, and fresh corn, then simmer with broth and a splash of cream. It’s slightly rich but still light enough for summer—and great with grilled bread.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Use the corn cobs to simmer with the broth before adding the kernels. It draws out extra flavor and gives the soup more body without extra cream.
Get the Summer Corn Chowder recipe.
4. Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup
This one’s light, bright, and super comforting. I cook orzo in chicken broth with shredded chicken, carrots, and celery, then stir in lemon juice and fresh herbs. It’s simple, filling, and perfect when I want something cozy without being too heavy.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Add lemon zest with the juice for even more flavor, and toss in a handful of spinach at the end for extra freshness and color.
Get the Chicken Lemon Orzo Soup recipe.
5. Chilled Avocado Soup
This soup is creamy, cool, and comes together in minutes. I blend ripe avocados with lime juice, garlic, herbs, and broth for a silky, nourishing soup that’s super refreshing. It’s one of my favorite quick lunches when it’s hot out.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Serve with a spoonful of salsa or chopped cucumber for extra brightness and texture, and keep it chilled right until serving time.
Get the Chilled Avocado Soup recipe.
6. Zucchini Basil Soup
When zucchini is overflowing in the garden, this soup saves the day. I sauté zucchini with garlic and onion, simmer it in veggie broth, then blend it with fresh basil for a smooth, flavorful green soup. It’s light, summery, and great served warm or chilled.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Add a spoonful of ricotta or Greek yogurt when blending for extra creaminess without needing heavy cream. A squeeze of lemon before serving also lifts the flavor.
Get the Zucchini Basil Soup recipe.
7. Coconut Curry Corn Soup
This is my tropical twist on summer corn soup. I cook fresh corn with coconut milk, red curry paste, and lime juice. It’s creamy, a little spicy, and totally comforting without being heavy. A fun way to change up your usual corn chowder.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dash of chili oil or crushed peanuts for flavor contrast and a little texture.
Get the Coconut Curry Corn Soup recipe.
8. Watermelon Gazpacho
Yes, watermelon! I blend it with tomatoes, cucumbers, lime, and herbs for a slightly sweet, slightly savory chilled soup. It’s ultra-refreshing and perfect for serving as a fancy starter at summer dinners.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Serve ice-cold with a few crumbles of feta or a dash of balsamic glaze. It helps balance the sweetness and gives the soup a restaurant-worthy finish.
Get the Watermelon Gazpacho recipe.
9. Spicy Black Bean and Lime Soup
This one’s great on a cooler summer night. I simmer black beans with garlic, onion, cumin, and broth, then finish with lime juice and fresh cilantro. It’s hearty, high in protein, and totally satisfying without being too rich.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Blend half the soup for a creamier texture, and top with diced avocado or crushed tortilla chips for contrast and crunch.
Get the Spicy Black Bean and Lime Soup recipe.
10. Chilled Pea and Mint Soup
Sweet peas and mint make the perfect pair in this cool, green soup. I simmer peas in broth, then blend with fresh mint and a little lemon juice. It’s light, smooth, and great for those days when you don’t want to turn on the stove for long.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Add a swirl of plain yogurt or crème fraîche on top before serving. It makes the soup extra creamy and balances the sweetness from the peas.
Get the Chilled Pea and Mint Soup recipe.
11. Italian White Bean and Tomato Soup
This is a pantry-friendly option I throw together often. I use canned white beans, diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs simmered in broth. It’s simple, full of flavor, and great served warm with a slice of crusty bread.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Stir in a handful of baby spinach right before serving. It adds color, nutrition, and a fresh finish without changing the base flavor.
Get the Italian White Bean and Tomato Soup recipe.
12. Cold Beet and Yogurt Soup (Inspired by Borscht)
This beautiful soup is a showstopper. I roast beets, then blend them with yogurt, dill, garlic, and lemon for a creamy, magenta-hued soup that’s earthy and refreshing. It’s unexpected, in the best way.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Let it sit overnight—the flavor gets better the next day. Top with chopped hard-boiled egg or cucumbers for a traditional touch.
Get the Cold Beet and Yogurt Soup (Inspired by Borscht) recipe.
13. Chicken and Vegetable Soup with Fresh Herbs
This is my lighter, summer-ready take on classic chicken soup. I use shredded chicken, seasonal vegetables, and fresh herbs like dill and parsley. It’s clean-tasting, easy on the stomach, and still totally comforting.
How to Make This Recipe Better
Use homemade or high-quality broth and finish with a squeeze of lemon or a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten up the flavors.
