Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
130 | 4g | 2g | 20g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
10g | 3g | 5g | 0.2g |
Stepping out of my comfort zone of cooking hearty mountain dishes and game meats, I’ve decided to share a refreshing Armenian Cucumber Soup recipe, inspired by a recent culinary adventure. This traditional Armenian dish, simple yet delightful, is the epitome of brilliant nutrition that boosts the palette and rejuvenates the body with its enticing burst of flavors and dynamic texture. Tantalizing the taste buds, this soup encompasses the ethereal lightness of Armenian Cucumber Soup, essential for a mid-day summer relief, or as the perfect palate-cleansing starter to any dinner party.
The Joy of Simplicity
What makes this Armenian Cucumber Soup so endearing, apart from its delightful flavor profile, is its simplicity. Chopped cucumbers mixed into a combination of plain yogurt, minced garlic, finely chopped dill, and mint – these ingredients harmoniously blend to give an incredibly refreshing tang. A squeeze of lemon juice and the infusion of olive oil are all it takes to elevate the flavors further. As someone who generally prefers the robustness of game meats or trout dishes, embracing this recipe was a pleasant surprise and an exciting exploration into other avenues of food.
Wholesome Health Benefits
One can’t overlook the plethora of health benefits associated with this delightful dish. Cucumbers are known for their hydrating properties and high vitamin content. On the other hand, yogurt contributes to healthier digestion, and olive oil—a source of heart-healthy fats—adds a fantastic, satiating touch. Not to mention, the garnishing of pomegranate seeds that add an aesthetic appeal while amplifying the dish with their antioxidant properties. This Armenian Cucumber Soup is proof that tasty food can also champion the cause of good health.
The Perfect Companion
Our Armenian Cucumber Soup, with its light yet fulfilling nature, makes a delightful standalone dish. But it also pairs well with various recipes, such as a grilled vegetable salad or a piece of freshly baked whole grain bread. It can also serve as a refreshing counterpart to rich and heavier dishes, like my staple trout dishes or something from Gordon’s masterful repertoire. This soup is a testament to the beauty of balancing and complementing flavors in a meal.
In conclusion, the Armenian Cucumber Soup is a lot more than just a refreshing summer dish. It’s a culinary delight, brimming with health benefits and an explosion of vibrant flavors. It has certainly earned a special place in my collection, and I recommend everyone to give it a try. With every spoonful, I’m sure you’ll appreciate its goodness, just as I have.
What You’ll Need
- 4 Armenian cucumbers, chopped
- 2 cups plain yogurt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cold water
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
- Garnish: 1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
Method
Step One
Begin by getting a large bowl and add chopped Armenian cucumbers, minced garlic, finely chopped fresh dill, and fresh mint into it.
Step Two
Then, add to your bowl 2 cups of plain yogurt. Mix these ingredients together until well combined.
Step Three
Next, add lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper to the bowl. Stir the ingredients until well combined.
Step Four
Slowly pour in 2 cups of cold water into your mixture and mix well.
Step Five
Add 1/2 cup of crushed ice into your soup and stir once more until everything is well combined.
Step Six
Finally, garnish your Armenian Cucumber Soup with fresh pomegranate seeds and serve chilled.
Enjoy your refreshing and tasty Armenian Cucumber Soup!