Cool Down This Summer: 5 Cold Soups from Around the World with Leo Foods
When the summer heat hits the Costa del Sol, the last thing most of us feel like doing is standing over a stove. But that doesn’t mean we have to settle for boring meals! Cold soups are a brilliant way to stay cool while still eating well, and they’re a staple in cuisines all over the world.
At Leo Foods, we stock a huge range of international products that make it easy to try these refreshing recipes at home. Whatever kind of flavour you’re looking for – something light and tangy, creamy and herbal, or packed with flavour- these five cold soups are perfect for summer, and you’ll find many of the key ingredients right here at our Marbella store or on our online shop.
- Spanish Gazpacho – A Classic from Andalucía
There’s no cold soup more iconic than gazpacho! Originating from right here in southern Spain, this tomato-based soup is blended and served chilled, perfect for a hot summer’s day.
Ingredients:
- Tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Vinegar
- Cucumber, peppers and onions
Just blend everything together, chill, and serve with croutons or diced veg for garnish. It’s a brilliant no-cook recipe and a must-have on any summer menu.
- Persian Ab Doogh Khiar – Iran’s Ultimate Summer Cooler
This one’s a hidden gem. Ab doogh khiar is a Persian yoghurt-based soup that combines cucumber, raisins, walnuts, herbs, and rose petals for a unique, slightly sweet, totally cooling dish.
Ingredients:
- Dried mint, parsley, tarragon, dill
- Yoghurt or doogh yoghurt drink
- Raisins
- Rose petals
- Cucumbers
It’s traditionally served with bread and even ice cubes. Add a handful of crushed walnuts for a lovely crunch!
- Japanese Hiyajiru – Cold Toasted Miso Soup with Rice
Literally translating to ‘cold soup’, Japanese Hiyajiru soup was said to be created to help farmers and soldiers battling fatigue in the swelteringly hot sun during the 12th century. Light and full of umami, it’s often served over rice and is the perfect summer comfort food.
Ingredients:
- White miso paste
- Sesame seeds
- Cucumbers
- Tofu
- Seaweed
- White rice
Toast the miso paste lightly, blend with cold water or dashi, and pour over steamed rice. Add sliced cucumber, tofu, herbs, and sesame seeds for a satisfying, chilled meal.
- South Korean Oi Naengguk – Cucumber Soup with a Kick
This South Korean chilled soup is light, zesty, and full of texture. Oi naengguk is made with cucumber in a soy and vinegar broth, topped with sesame and sometimes seaweed.
Ingredients:
- Soy sauce
- Vinegar
- Sesame seeds
- Wakame Seaweed
- Cucumbers, green onions and garlic
It’s quick, vegan-friendly, and incredibly refreshing. You can also toss in some noodles to make it a meal.
- Lithuanian Šaltibarščiai – Refreshing Cold Beetroot Soup
This vibrant cold beet soup is a staple in Lithuanian cuisine, especially popular during the warmer months. It’s made by combining tangy kefir or buttermilk with either boiled or pickled beetroot, creating a creamy pink base!
- Kefir
- Beetroot
- Cucumbers
- Onion leaves
- Dill
- Potatoes
- Egg
Traditionally served well-chilled, it’s often paired with a side of warm potatoes and makes for a refreshing starter or a light, satisfying meal on its own.
Why Shop at Leo Foods for Your Summer Recipes?
Whether you’re craving something Mediterranean, Eastern European, Middle Eastern, or Asian-inspired, Leo Foods has the ingredients to bring global flavours to your kitchen.
We’re proud to be Marbella’s go-to for:
- International pastes, spices, and herbs
- High-quality dairy and plant-based products
- Seasonal fresh produce
- Convenient online ordering via our e-shop
- A Cash & Carry warehouse open to public and trade
From chilled soups to BBQ seasonings and everything in between, our team is always happy to help you find the ingredients you need to create incredible feasts and everyday dishes.
Cool, Creative, and Convenient
These cold soups from around the world are a great way to keep your meals fresh and fun this summer. They’re easy to make, packed with flavour, and full of ingredients you’ll find right here at Leo Foods.
Explore our full range of international products today at our Marbella warehouse or online at shop.interleo.com.
