It’s a sun-soaked day, and the aroma of fresh limes wafts through the air, promising a refreshing adventure in each spoonful of cold sopa de lima (lime soup). Imagine sitting on a cozy patio, surrounded by laughter and the clinking of glasses filled with your favorite drink. creamy avocado lime crema This zesty soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds.
Now picture this: your best friend, who has never met a lime they didn’t like, walks in with a giant grin and the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store. They declare today is all about cold sopa de lima, creating memories that will last long after the last drop of soup is slurped. Whether it’s a hot summer afternoon or a casual dinner party, this dish is sure to be the star. Trust me; you’ll want to make it again and again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cold sopa de lima offers an effortless preparation experience while delivering bold flavors that excite your palate.
- Its vibrant colors bring visual delight to any table setting.
- Not only is it perfect for warm weather dining, but its ingredients can easily be adapted based on what you have available.
- This versatile dish shines as an appetizer or a light meal, making it suitable for various occasions.
Ingredients for Cold sopa de lima (lime soup)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Limes: You’ll need about four to six limes for their juice and zest; choose ones that feel heavy for their size.
- Chicken Breast: Use one pound of boneless chicken breast for protein; poach it until tender for added flavor.
- Vegetable Broth: A quart of low-sodium vegetable broth serves as the base; choose organic for a cleaner taste.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness to the soup; use about half a cup, finely chopped.
- Red Onion: One small red onion gives sweetness and crunch; dice it finely for even distribution.
- Tomatoes: About two diced tomatoes provide color and flavor; opt for ripe ones for maximum juiciness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cold sopa de lima (lime soup)
For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Start by poaching your chicken breast in simmering water or broth until cooked through, roughly 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix Lime Juice
While the chicken cools, squeeze those limes until you have about half a cup of fresh lime juice—don’t forget to zest one or two limes for extra zing.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl or pot, mix together the vegetable broth, lime juice, shredded chicken, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and red onion. Stir well to combine all those vibrant flavors.
Step 4: Chill
Cover the bowl and let your soup chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows all those bold flavors to mingle like old friends at a reunion.
Step 5: Taste Test
Before serving, give your cold sopa de lima a taste test. Adjust seasoning with salt or more lime juice if needed—this is where you can really make it shine!
Step 6: Serve
Transfer into bowls and garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges just before serving. Enjoy this refreshing treat that’s bursting with flavor!
Now gather your friends around because once they try this vibrant cold sopa de lima (lime soup), they’ll be begging you for seconds!
You Must Know
- This refreshing cold sopa de lima (lime soup) is a fiesta for your taste buds!
- With zesty lime, tender chicken, and a dash of spice, it transforms any meal into a celebration.
- Perfect for hot summer days or whenever you need a flavor boost.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the chicken to infuse the broth with flavor. While that simmers, chop your veggies and prepare the lime juice. grilled veggie skewers Once the chicken is cooked, shred it and combine everything in a bowl. grilled lemon chicken Voila!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what’s in your fridge! Add diced avocados for creaminess, swap chicken for shrimp, or toss in some corn for extra sweetness. Get creative!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cold sopa de lima (lime soup) in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. To serve, simply chill again if needed or enjoy straight from the fridge!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh limes for juicing; bottled lime juice just won’t cut it in flavor.
- Don’t skip chilling time; a cold soup is a happy soup!
- Shred chicken while it’s warm for easier handling and better texture.
Sometimes I make this cold sopa de lima (lime soup) when friends come over, and their smiles after the first sip are honestly priceless—it’s like sunshine in a bowl!
FAQs:
What is Cold Sopa de Lima (lime soup)?
Cold sopa de lima, also known as lime soup, is a traditional Mexican dish originating from the Yucatán Peninsula. It features a refreshing blend of fresh lime juice, chicken broth, and ingredients such as shredded chicken, tortilla strips, and spices. The soup is served chilled, making it perfect for warm weather. Its zesty flavor profile and colorful presentation make it not only delicious but visually appealing. Enjoying this dish during a hot day can be a delightful experience that transports you to tropical locales.
How do you serve Cold Sopa de Lima?
To serve cold sopa de lima, ladle the chilled soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and avocado slices. Some people love to add crispy tortilla strips on top for added crunch. You can also include diced tomatoes and radishes for extra color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or corn tortillas. Serving it alongside a refreshing drink like agua fresca enhances the overall experience.
Can I make Cold Sopa de Lima ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cold sopa de lima ahead of time! The flavors meld beautifully as it sits in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to add any crispy toppings, like tortilla strips or fresh herbs, just before serving to maintain their texture and freshness. Prepare the base of the soup one day in advance and chill it thoroughly. This allows you to enjoy a quick and delicious meal on busy days without compromising on taste.
What are some variations of Cold Sopa de Lima?
There are many delightful variations of cold sopa de lima that cater to different tastes or dietary preferences. For instance, you can substitute chicken with shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers gives an extra crunch and freshness. Experimenting with different spices or using lime zest can enhance the flavor profile further. Each variation allows you to personalize this vibrant dish according to your preference.
Conclusion for Cold Sopa de Lima (lime soup):
Cold sopa de lima is a refreshing dish that highlights the natural tanginess of lime combined with rich broth and tender ingredients. Perfect for warm weather dining, its preparation offers flexibility through various ingredient substitutions and garnishes. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with sides, this vibrant soup remains a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or casual meals. Embrace its zesty flavors and explore personal variations to make every serving unique!
Cold Sopa de Lima (Lime Soup)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cold sopa de lima is a refreshing Mexican lime soup that combines vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for warm days or casual gatherings, this chilled dish features poached chicken, zesty lime juice, and colorful veggies. Each spoonful delivers a burst of brightness that will transport you to sunny beaches, making it an ideal appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
- 4–6 fresh limes (juice and zest)
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped)
- 1 small red onion (diced)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (diced)
Instructions
- Poach the chicken breast in simmering water or broth for 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Allow it to cool, then shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Squeeze the limes to obtain about ½ cup of juice; zest one or two limes for added flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine vegetable broth, lime juice, shredded chicken, cilantro, diced tomatoes, and red onion. Mix until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more lime juice as needed.
- Serve chilled in bowls garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Poaching
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: - Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variations. - Add diced avocado or corn for extra texture and flavor. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
