Ah, *Chilled Corn Soup*! This dish is like a summer hug in a bowl, isn’t it? I can’t tell you how many warm afternoons I’ve spent with a bowl of this refreshing soup, feeling the sun on my face and a gentle breeze ruffling my hair. It’s perfect for those hot days when you just can’t handle anything heavy. When the corn is at its sweetest, I whip this up and feel like I’m celebrating summer in every spoonful.
Just last year, I had friends over for a backyard barbecue, and I served this chilled corn soup as a starter. Everyone was blown away by how light and flavorful it was! The coolness of the soup paired with the fresh taste of corn made it a hit. Plus, it’s so easy to make – just a little sautéing, simmering, and blending, and you’re good to go! I love how it brings everyone together, sharing laughter and stories while enjoying something so simple yet delicious. Trust me, once you try this refreshing soup, it’ll become a go-to in your summer recipe repertoire!
Ingredients for Chilled Corn Soup
Gather these fresh and simple ingredients to whip up your delicious chilled corn soup:
- For the Soup:
- 4 ears of corn, kernels removed from cob
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk (you can substitute with almond milk if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Chilled Corn Soup
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious chilled corn soup! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring summer in no time.
Step 1: Sauté the Corn
First things first, grab a pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot but not smoking, just enough to make that lovely sound when the corn hits the pan! Once the oil is ready, toss in the corn kernels. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and fragrant. The sweet aroma will already start to fill your kitchen, making you eager for what’s to come!
Step 2: Simmer the Mixture
Next, it’s time to add the vegetable broth to the pot. Pour it in and bring everything to a boil – you’ll hear that satisfying bubbling sound! Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes. This is where the flavors really meld together. You might want to take a little taste to see how the corn is softening – it’s so good!
Step 3: Blend the Soup
After simmering, let the mixture cool slightly. Trust me, you don’t want to blend it while it’s super hot, or you’ll end up with a kitchen explosion! Once it’s cooled a bit, carefully transfer it to your blender. Blend until smooth – you want it silky and creamy. Just picture how refreshing that smooth texture will be when you dig in!
Step 4: Add Milk and Season
Now, stir in the milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix, and then it’s time for the best part – chilling! Pour your soup into a bowl or container and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This cooling step is key for that refreshing taste! You could even make it a day ahead and let the flavors develop overnight.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the chilled corn soup into bowls. To elevate it a bit, sprinkle some chopped chives on top for that burst of color and flavor. Voila! You have a beautiful and delicious chilled corn soup that’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light meal at home. Enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for this delightful chilled corn soup. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what you’re savoring:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 200 IU
- Vitamin C: 5mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 1mg
This soup is not just refreshing but also packed with nutrients! It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy meal while keeping things light and delicious. Perfect for those summer days!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This chilled corn soup comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy summer days!
- Refreshing: It’s a light and cool dish that’s incredibly satisfying on a hot day, almost like a mini-vacation in a bowl.
- Healthy: Packed with fresh corn and nutritious ingredients, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious meal.
- Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer or a light lunch—it’s perfect for any occasion!
- Fun to Customize: Add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal twist that makes it uniquely yours!
Tips for Success with Chilled Corn Soup
To make sure your chilled corn soup turns out absolutely perfect every time, here are some handy tips I swear by:
- Choose Fresh Corn: The sweeter and fresher the corn, the better your soup will taste! If you can, get your corn from a local farmer’s market or grocery store.
- Cool Down Properly: Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending. This not only prevents splattering but also helps maintain the vibrant color and flavor of the corn.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add a bit more milk or broth while blending. Just taste and adjust until it’s perfect for you!
- Season to Taste: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! A good pinch of salt can elevate the flavors. I like to taste as I go to get it just right.
- Chill Longer for Best Flavor: If you have the time, let the soup chill for a few hours or even overnight. The flavors meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious!
- Garnish Creatively: While chives are fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of paprika, or even some roasted corn on top can add extra flair.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be a pro at making chilled corn soup that impresses everyone! Happy cooking!
Variations of Chilled Corn Soup
Get ready to have some fun with your chilled corn soup! There are so many delicious ways to switch things up. For a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños right when you sauté the corn. If you’re a fan of herbs, fresh basil or cilantro can elevate the flavor beautifully. You could even throw in some roasted red peppers for a smoky twist! Want a creamier texture? Swap half the milk for some heavy cream or coconut milk. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make this soup truly your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your chilled corn soup is a breeze! Just transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, but trust me, it’s so delicious, you might not have any left after the first day!
If you happen to have some soup left over, and you want to enjoy it later, you can reheat it easily. Simply pour the soup into a pot over low heat, stirring gently until it’s warmed through. Remember, you can always adjust the consistency by adding a splash of milk or broth if it thickens up in the fridge. Just be careful not to let it boil, as it’s best served warm, not hot.
Now, if you prefer it chilled (and I totally get that!), just enjoy it straight from the fridge as is. The flavors are just as fantastic cold, making it perfect for those hot summer days!
Serving Suggestions
This chilled corn soup is a delightful starter on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic ideas for what to serve alongside:
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: The lightness of the soup complements the smoky flavors of grilled proteins perfectly.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a burst of flavor that works wonderfully with the sweet corn soup.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly baked baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping and soaking up that delicious soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese makes for a great, healthy side.
- Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, nuts, and fruits can create a lovely grazing board to enjoy with the soup.
These accompaniments not only enhance the overall dining experience but also make it a delightful summer meal! Enjoy your culinary creations!
For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out our Pinterest page!
Chilled Corn Soup
Equipment
- Blender
- Pot
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 ears corn kernels removed from cob
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk can substitute with almond milk
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped chives
Instructions
- In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add corn and sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend until smooth.
- Stir in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Serve in bowls and garnish with chopped chives.