Cucumber Soup

Cold soups featuring cucumber have long provided respite in hot climates across the Mediterranean and Middle East.

Variations appear in Bulgarian cuisine as Tarator, in Persian cuisine as Ab Doogh Khiar, and in Greek cuisine as a simple chilled appetiser.

These traditions recognise the cucumber's high water content and cooling properties, often pairing it with yogurt to create a refreshing, nourishing dish. The addition of spinach in this version adds modern nutritional sensibilities while maintaining the ancient principle of combining dairy with fresh vegetables for a satisfying cold meal. ■

See the full recipe for Cucumber Soup