Summer is a season of sunshine, warmth and long days spent outdoors. However, heat and humidity can also take a toll on our bodies, especially when it comes to our digestive system.
Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy and delicious summer soups that can help aid digestion and provide nourishment in the heat. From light gazpacho to hearty vegetable broth, these soups can help keep you feeling healthy and energized all season long.
Summer soups are a great way to stay hydrated and replenish your body with essential nutrients. They are also easy to make and can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your preference. Whether you are looking for a refreshing option to cool you down on a hot day or a hearty meal to keep you satisfied, there is a summer soup for every taste and need.
Beat the heat with 7 different summer soups
Gazpacho: Cooling and Hydrating Tomato-Based Soup
Gazpacho is a classic Spanish soup made with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, garlic and olive oil. This chilled soup is not only refreshing but also rich in fiber and antioxidants.
Tomatoes are known to contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy digestion. Cucumbers and bell peppers aid hydration due to their high water content, while garlic and onions provide additional digestive benefits.
Cold Cucumber Soup: Soothing and Refreshing Summer Delight
Cold cucumber soup is a creamy and cooling soup made with fresh cucumbers, yogurt or buttermilk, herbs like dill or mint and a touch of lemon juice. Cucumbers are incredibly hydrating and contain enzymes that aid in digestion. The addition of yogurt or buttermilk provides probiotics, which support gut health and promote proper digestion. The soup’s soothing nature makes it a perfect choice for those with sensitive stomachs.
Watermelon Gazpacho: Sweet and Tangy Refreshment
Watermelon gazpacho is a twist on the traditional gazpacho recipe, incorporating juicy watermelon as the star ingredient. This vibrant soup is packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C, and contains electrolytes like potassium, which help maintain proper fluid balance. The natural sweetness of watermelon adds a delightful touch to this hydrating summer soup, making it a perfect choice for hot days.
Chilled Avocado Soup: Creamy Goodness for Digestive Health
Chilled avocado soup is a velvety and nutritious option, providing healthy fats and fiber for optimal digestion. Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats that promote healthy cholesterol levels and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Their fiber content supports regular bowel movements and a healthy gut. The soup can be seasoned with lime juice, cilantro and spices for added flavor and digestive benefits.
Summer Vegetable Soup: Abundance of Nutrients in Every Bowl
Summer vegetable soup is a vibrant medley of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, carrots and green beans.
This light and refreshing soup offer an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zucchini and yellow squash provide dietary fiber for improved digestion, while tomatoes offer lycopene and vitamin C that have anti-inflammatory properties. Carrots and green beans add a dose of beta-carotene and fiber to support digestive health.
Miso Soup: Gut-Friendly Elixir from Japan
Miso soup is a traditional Japanese soup made with fermented soybean paste called miso, along with seaweed, tofu, and various vegetables. Fermented foods like miso contain probiotics that support a healthy gut microbiome, improving digestion and nutrient absorption. Seaweed provides essential minerals like iodine, while tofu offers plant-based protein. Miso soup is not only delicious but also beneficial for gastrointestinal health.
Coconut Curry Soup: Exotic Flavor and Digestive Support
Coconut curry soup is a tantalizing combination of coconut milk, aromatic spices like turmeric and cumin, and an array of vegetables or proteins of your choice. Coconut milk contains healthy fats that aid digestion and reduce inflammation, while spices provide additional digestive benefits.
Turmeric, in particular, contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory properties and aiding of gut health. This exotic and flavorful soup is a true treat for the taste buds while promoting optimal digestion.
Conclusion:
When it comes to staying healthy and nourished in the summer, soups can be a great option. From refreshing gazpacho to hearty vegetable broth, there are plenty of delicious summer soups that can help support digestion and provide essential nutrients. By incorporating these top 7 soups into your diet, you can stay cool, hydrated and energized all season long.
