Summer Soup Recipes
Summer Soup Recipes may not be the first thing you think of during hot weather, but they’re surprisingly a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy seasonal produce. From chilled gazpachos to brothy veggie-packed bowls, these summer soup recipes make the most of seasonal produce like tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, and herbs.

I didn’t always think of soup as a summer staple, but once I tried a few chilled and veggie-packed versions, it totally changed my mind. This collection brings together some of my favorite warm-weather soups, from fruity blends that could pass for dessert to nourishing broths and globally inspired flavors. Whether you're keeping it vegan, gluten-free, or just light and fresh, there's something here you’ll want to come back to all season long.
Enjoy summer soups on their own or paired with simple sides like this light prosciutto sandwich or a chicken club sandwich. And if you're on the hunt for more warm weather soups, check out these spring soup recipes!
International Chilled Delights: Cold Summer Soup Recipes
Cool off with globally inspired cold soups that are perfect for light summer meals on hot days. From classic gazpacho to unique dishes like Okroshka, these refreshing soups feature fresh, vibrant flavors that make the most of seasonal produce.
Warm Weather Warmers: Light Hot Soups
For those who prefer warm dishes during summer, these light and hearty easy summer soups are perfect for the season. From veggie-packed broths to flavorful coconut curries, these soups are ideal for cool evenings when you want something comforting yet not too heavy.
Fruit-Based Summer Soups
Sweet, refreshing, and perfect for hot days, fruit-based summer soups double as both a dessert and a cool snack. These chilled, vibrant soups are packed with the natural sweetness of seasonal fruits, offering a light, satisfying way to end your meal or enjoy as a treat anytime.
Tips for Perfect Summer Soups
- Use Seasonal Ingredients: Take advantage of the freshest produce by choosing fruits and vegetables that are in season for the most vibrant and flavorful summertime soups.
- Proper Chilling Is Key: For the best taste, let your chilled soups rest in the fridge for a few hours to allow all the flavors to develop. Be sure to taste chilled soups before serving as the seasonings can be a bit muted when cold.
- Add a Flavor Boost with Garnishes: Top your soups with fresh herbs, a swirl of olive oil, or a spoonful of creamy yogurt to boost both flavor and presentation.
- Prep Ahead for Maximum Flavor: Make your soups in advance to let the ingredients blend together, and save time on those busy summer days when you need a quick, satisfying meal.
- Experiment with Textures: Blend soups until smooth for a silky finish or leave some chunks for added texture.
- Balance Sweet and Savory: For fruit-based soups, don't be afraid to balance sweetness with a touch of salt or a splash of vinegar to bring out the flavors.
What to Serve with Summer Soups
Complement your soup with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a light sandwich for a well-rounded meal.
- Pick up your favorite crusty dinner rolls or bake some easy air fryer biscuits to serve on the side.
- Soup and a sandwich is a classic pairing perfect for the summer! I love this southwest veggie wrap and a chicken club sandwich when I want something a bit heartier.
- Add a crunchy component to your soup with these homemade cornbread croutons, regular croutons, or even oyster crackers.
Summer Soup Recipes FAQs
Chilled soup recipes are served cold and can be garnished with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a spoonful of yogurt for added richness and visual appeal. Serve in bowls or as a refreshing appetizer in shot glasses for a fun twist.
Yes, many summer soups taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Homemade broths are a great way to control salt content. Enhance flavor with fresh herbs, spices, and a splash of acid (like lemon juice or vinegar) instead of adding more salt.
Many summer soups freeze nicely, but soups containing dairy or fragile herbs may not hold up well when thawed, as they can separate or lose flavor. For best results, stick to only freezing brothy or vegetable-based soups.
For a protein boost, try adding legumes like lentils or chickpeas, or use tofu or tempeh, which won’t compromise the soup's light and refreshing feel.
From cool, refreshing gazpachos to light, flavorful broths, summer soup recipes are a wonderful way to enjoy the season’s best produce. They’re easy to make, packed with fresh ingredients, and perfect for everything from light lunches to simple suppers. We hope these ideas inspire you to add a few soups to your summer rotation and just how satisfying they can be!
More Soups on the Lighter Side to Try
Did you try any of these soup recipes? Please leave a 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating on the recipe card if you loved it and your comments below! For more recipes, you can follow along on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest!