Chilled Beet Soup With Dill Yogurt Recipe

This chilled beet soup with dill yogurt offers a revitalizing summer dish that balances earthy sweetness with tangy creaminess. You’ll start by roasting fresh beets at 400°F for 45-60 minutes, then blend them with water, lemon juice, and garlic. Chill the soup for at least 2 hours to intensify flavors. For the topping, mix Greek yogurt with fresh dill, salt, and pepper. You can customize the recipe by using golden beets, adding cashews for creaminess, or incorporating spices for heat. With 180 calories per serving, this nutritious soup provides a cool respite on hot days. Discover how simple variations can transform this versatile dish.

Ingredients and Preparation

Chilled Beet Soup with Dill Yogurt

This vibrant, refreshing chilled beet soup is a perfect antidote to hot summer days. Roasted beets provide a rich, earthy sweetness, balanced by tangy Greek yogurt and aromatic dill. The soup’s striking deep magenta color makes for an impressive presentation, while its cool temperature and invigorating flavors offer a welcome respite from the heat. This Eastern European-inspired dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients, making it a delightful and healthy addition to any summer menu.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh beets
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Additional dill sprigs for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the beets and wrap them individually in aluminum foil.
3. Place the wrapped beets on a baking sheet and roast for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool until safe to handle.
5. Peel the cooled beets and chop them into small pieces.
6. In a blender, combine the chopped beets, water, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until chilled.
8. In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with 3 tablespoons of the chopped dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
9. Before serving, give the chilled soup a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed.
10. Pour the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of the dill yogurt.
11. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with remaining chopped dill and dill sprigs.

Top Tips

1. For a smoother texture, strain the blended soup through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
2. Roast extra beets to use in salads or as a side dish later in the week.
3. If short on time, use pre-cooked vacuum-packed beets instead of roasting your own.
4. Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding more water if it’s too thick after blending.
5. For a more intense flavor, add a small amount of horseradish to the dill yogurt.
6. Serve the soup in chilled bowls to keep it cool for longer.

Variations

1. Golden Beet Soup: Use golden beets instead of red for a sunny yellow version.
2. Creamy Beet Soup: Blend in 1/2 cup of cashews for a creamier texture and nutty flavor.
3. Spicy Beet Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
4. Beet and Apple Soup: Include a tart apple when blending for a fruity twist.
5. Roasted Garlic Version: Use a whole head of roasted garlic instead of raw for a mellower flavor.
6. Vegan Option: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or cashew cream.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Servings	4
Calories	180
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	22g
Protein	6g
Fiber	5g

This chilled beet soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beets are an excellent source of folate, manganese, and potassium. They’re also rich in nitrates, which may help lower blood pressure. The addition of Greek yogurt provides protein and probiotics, supporting digestive health. With its low calorie and fat content, this soup makes for a light yet satisfying meal, perfect for those watching their weight or looking for a nutrient-dense option.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can serve this soup warm, adapting to your temperature preferences. Consider flavor variations by adjusting spices or ingredient swaps like using cream instead of yogurt. Serving suggestions include garnishing with fresh herbs for added depth.

How Long Does the Soup Stay Fresh in the Refrigerator?

You’ll find your soup stays fresh for 3-4 days when properly stored. Follow these storing tips: use an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. For extended shelf life, consider freezing. Experiment with flavor variations and garnish options to keep it exciting.

Are There Any Suitable Substitutes for Beets in This Recipe?

You can experiment with alternative vegetables like carrots or parsnips for similar textures. Consider flavor variations by using sweet potatoes or butternut squash. These substitutes will alter the soup’s taste profile but maintain its creamy consistency.

What Main Dishes Pair Well With Chilled Beet Soup?

You’ll find that chilled beet soup pairs excellently with light salads and grilled meats. Consider a cool green salad or a grilled chicken breast. These combinations offer a balanced meal that’s both invigorating and satisfying for your group.

Is This Soup Suitable for Freezing and Reheating Later?

You’ll find that freezing and reheating this soup is a viable option for storage and meal planning convenience. However, consider your taste preferences, as texture may change slightly upon thawing. It’s an excellent choice for make-ahead meals.

Before You Go

You’ve now mastered the preparation of chilled beet soup with dill yogurt. This dish’s vibrant color and invigorating taste make it a perfect summer starter. You’ll find the balance of earthy beets and tangy yogurt creates a rich flavor profile. Remember to chill thoroughly before serving for peak taste. For top-notch results, you’ll want to use fresh, high-grade ingredients. Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning to your liking. This soup’s flexibility allows for different garnish options.