Palomino is a classic chilled cucumber soup that reflects the light, elegant entertaining style popular in mid-20th-century American kitchens, especially in warmer months. With fresh cucumbers blended smooth, enriched with sour cream, and gently sharpened with vinegar and cayenne, this soup was often served as a luncheon starter or a refined light dinner. Its name hints at sophistication, while its method is refreshingly simple—relying on balance rather than complexity. The final touch of slivered almonds adds texture and a subtle nutty contrast to the cool, creamy base. Palomino remains beloved for its clean flavor, make-ahead ease, and timeless ability to feel both nostalgic and modern.
Ingredients
- 4 cucumbers (peeled and seeded)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ¼ cup onion (chopped )
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 cups chicken broth (divided)
- 3 tbsp white wine vinegar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 4 tbsps green bell pepper (finely chopped )
- 3 tbsp sugar
- Slivered almonds (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Start the Base
- Place half of the cucumbers, the onion, and 1 cup of the chicken broth in a food processor.
- Process until the mixture is smooth.
Step 2: Combine
- Pour the blended mixture into a large bowl or container.
Step 3: Blend Remaining Cucumbers
- Add the remaining cucumbers and the remaining 2 cups of chicken broth to the processor.
- Blend until smooth and add to the container.
Step 4: Season the Soup
- Stir in sour cream, vinegar, salt, cayenne, bell pepper, and sugar.
- Mix well until fully combined.
Step 5: Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours until well chilled.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with slivered almonds just before serving.
Tips
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein
- Add fresh dill or chives for an herby note
- Serve in chilled cups for a party appetizer
- Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness
- Blend in avocado for extra creaminess
- Top with toasted almonds for more crunch
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers
- Make a day ahead for best flavor
- Adjust cayenne to taste for more heat
Nutrition
Calories: 1140kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 320mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 420IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 90mgIron: 0.8mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!