This Chilled Avocado Soup with Lemon Basil is a light, refreshing summer dish that brings together the creaminess of ripe avocados with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemon basil. It’s a perfect appetizer or brunch starter, offering a creamy texture without being heavy, and it’s vegan, gluten-free, and free from dairy and nuts, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chilled avocado soup is incredibly easy to make and packed with flavors that are perfect for hot summer days. With just a few ingredients and a blender, you can whip up a dish that’s not only creamy but also refreshing and light. The addition of lemon basil (or regular basil with extra lemon zest) gives the soup a zingy, herbaceous twist, making it stand out from typical avocado-based soups. Plus, it’s a no-cook recipe, keeping your kitchen cool and your prep time short.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados, roughly chopped (peeled, pit discarded)

• 1 cup coconut milk (lite)

• 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth (mild and light-tasting)

• Zest from one lemon

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from one lemon)

• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon basil, chopped (or use regular basil with extra lemon zest)

• 2 teaspoons shallots, minced

• 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Add all the ingredients to a blender.

2. Blend until very smooth and creamy.

3. Transfer the soup to a container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it chills, the better it tastes.

4. Once chilled, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice as needed.

5. Serve chilled in small bowls or shot glasses as an appetizer, or pair it with a light salad for a simple meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 2 hours chilling time)

Variations

• Herb Variations: If you don’t have lemon basil, you can substitute regular basil or even mint for a unique twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.

• Protein Addition: For a heartier dish, consider adding chilled crabmeat or shrimp. The combination of the creamy avocado with seafood is divine!

Storage/Reheating

• This soup is best enjoyed cold and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• The soup may separate slightly after being stored, but a quick shake or stir will bring it back to its smooth consistency.

• It is not recommended to freeze this soup, as the texture may change upon thawing.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular basil instead of lemon basil?

Yes, you can! Regular basil works fine, but you can add extra lemon zest to mimic the lemon basil flavor.

2. How long can I store the soup in the fridge?

You can store this soup in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a quick stir before serving.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after being chilled for a few hours or overnight, so it’s a great make-ahead dish.

4. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or as a starter before a light summer meal.

5. Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, adding chilled crab, shrimp, or even grilled chicken can turn this soup into a heartier dish.

6. Can I use other types of milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, you can use almond milk or another non-dairy milk if you prefer, but coconut milk gives it a rich, creamy texture.

7. Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this soup is completely vegan, as well as gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

8. Can I freeze this soup?

It’s not recommended to freeze this soup, as the texture may change once thawed.

9. What if I don’t have a blender?

You can try using a food processor, but the texture may not be as smooth as when using a blender.

10. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to give this soup a bit of heat and extra flavor.

Conclusion

Chilled Avocado Soup with Lemon Basil is a refreshing, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for hot summer days. It’s easy to make, with no cooking involved, and its light texture makes it ideal for a starter or a light lunch. Whether served as an appetizer at a summer gathering or enjoyed as a refreshing solo meal, this soup is sure to impress. Plus, with variations and the ability to make it ahead of time, it’s a convenient and versatile dish for any occasion.