Go Back
–+ servings
Cucumber Soup
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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 20 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 1140 kcal

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
Keyword chilled soup, creamy soup, cucumber soup, light meal, retro recipes, summer lunch, vintage recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!