Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup is a fresh, vibrant, and slightly tangy soup that draws inspiration from the classic Greek tzatziki sauce. Known for her simple yet elegant approach to cooking, Mary Berry created this soup as a clever way to enjoy the cooling, refreshing flavors of tzatziki in a more substantial, comforting form. The soup offers a unique twist on traditional soups by incorporating the cool, creamy texture of yogurt with the refreshing flavors of cucumber, garlic, and herbs.

This chilled or room-temperature soup is perfect for warm weather, as it’s incredibly light but still satisfying. The soup has a rich, creamy consistency without being too heavy, thanks to the use of Greek yogurt, and it’s balanced with the crispness of cucumber, the tang of lemon, and a burst of fresh herbs like dill and mint. It can be served as a starter, a light lunch, or a side dish alongside grilled meats or a hearty Mediterranean salad. Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup is a beautiful representation of Mediterranean flavors in a bowl, offering the perfect combination of refreshing coolness and rich creaminess.

Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients that are both simple and wholesome. The beauty of this soup lies in its fresh, easy-to-find components that come together to create a harmonious balance of flavors:

1. Greek Yogurt – The base of the soup, giving it a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor that is characteristic of tzatziki.
2. Cucumber – A crisp and refreshing vegetable that adds a cooling element to the soup. It’s essential for recreating the coolness of tzatziki sauce in soup form.
3. Garlic – Fresh garlic is key to providing depth and a touch of sharpness that contrasts with the creamy yogurt and cool cucumber.
4. Lemon Juice – Adds a citrusy tang to the soup, elevating the freshness and brightening up the overall flavor.
5. Fresh Herbs – Dill and mint are commonly used in tzatziki sauce and bring aromatic, herbaceous flavors to the soup. They also lend an authentic Greek flavor.
6. Olive Oil – A generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps tie the ingredients together.
7. Salt and Pepper – To season the soup and bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
8. Water or Vegetable Broth – For thinning out the soup to your desired consistency, depending on how thick or thin you prefer your soup.

Equipment Needed

For this dish, you don’t need any fancy equipment, which is one of the reasons why Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup is such an approachable recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Blender or Food Processor – To blend the soup into a smooth, creamy consistency. A high-speed blender is ideal for breaking down the cucumber and yogurt to create that velvety texture.
2. Sharp Knife – For chopping the cucumber, garlic, and herbs.
3. Chopping Board – To safely chop your ingredients.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure you’re using the right amounts of ingredients, particularly with the seasonings and lemon juice.
5. Mixing Bowl – If you plan to stir in the herbs or taste and adjust the seasoning.
6. Serving Bowls – To serve the finished soup, ideally something shallow to show off the vibrant color and texture.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup

The process of making Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup is wonderfully simple and straightforward. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step:

1. Prepare the Cucumber: Begin by peeling and finely chopping the cucumber. You can either deseed it if you prefer a smoother soup or leave the seeds for a bit of extra texture. If you want an even smoother result, you can grate the cucumber instead, but be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the soup.
2. Prepare the Garlic and Herbs: Finely chop the garlic and herbs (mint and dill). Fresh herbs are the key to bringing vibrancy to this dish, so be sure to chop them finely to release all their aromatic oils.
3. Combine Ingredients in a Blender: Add the chopped cucumber, garlic, fresh herbs, and Greek yogurt to your blender or food processor. Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and drizzle in the olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
4. Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture on high speed until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. You can add a splash of cold water or vegetable broth if you prefer a thinner soup. Taste for seasoning and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
5. Chill or Serve: If you’re preparing this soup as a chilled dish, transfer it to a container, cover it, and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. If you prefer it at room temperature, feel free to serve immediately after blending.
6. Garnish and Serve: When ready to serve, ladle the soup into individual bowls. Drizzle a little more olive oil on top and garnish with a sprig of fresh dill or mint. You can also add a few extra slices of cucumber for texture if you like.

Tips And Tricks

While the recipe itself is simple, here are a few tips and tricks to make sure your Tzatziki Soup turns out perfectly every time:

1. Adjust the Consistency: If you find the soup too thick after blending, simply add a little more cold water or vegetable broth to thin it out. The goal is to achieve a silky texture, so feel free to play with the liquid until you get your desired thickness.
2. Make It Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. The flavors will have more time to develop, and the soup will be nice and chilled, making it even more refreshing for a hot day.
3. Add More Herbs: If you’re a fan of herbs, feel free to experiment with adding other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. These can add a different layer of flavor to the soup.
4. Make It Vegan: If you want to make this soup vegan-friendly, simply swap out the Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream. You can also use olive oil for the richness instead of yogurt.
5. Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of chili flakes or a small sliced fresh chili into the blender. It will add a zesty kick without overpowering the refreshing flavors.

Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup is a delightful dish that transforms the familiar and beloved flavors of Greek tzatziki into a smooth, chilled soup that’s perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s easy to prepare, and its balance of cool cucumber, creamy yogurt, fresh herbs, and tangy lemon makes it a perfect dish for any warm day. Whether you’re making it as a starter, a side dish, or a light lunch, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a taste of the Mediterranean in a bowl. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to enjoy the crisp, clean flavors of summer, all while feeling nourished and satisfied.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup

Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup is a vibrant, refreshing dish with a creamy yet tangy base, perfect for light lunches or as a starter for dinner. While the original recipe is already delicious, there are many easy variations you can try to suit different tastes or to make it more fitting for specific dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

1. Herb Infusion: Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup relies heavily on fresh herbs, and you can easily boost the flavor by adding more herbs like dill, parsley, or basil. If you’re a fan of thyme, a little sprig or two can add an earthiness that balances the yogurt’s sharpness. Fresh mint is also a great addition-its cooling nature complements the yogurt perfectly. For a more exotic twist, try using tarragon or cilantro for a refreshing, slightly peppery flavor.
2. Add Protein: If you want to make the soup heartier, you can incorporate some grilled chicken, lamb, or prawns. For vegetarians, consider adding chickpeas or white beans to increase the protein content without altering the soup’s light feel. Simply toss the cooked protein in before serving or blend it into the soup for a smoother texture.
3. Dairy-Free Option: For those avoiding dairy, swapping out the yogurt for a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt or cashew cream will still provide that creamy consistency. Be mindful of the flavor; coconut yogurt will add a slight sweetness, while cashew cream will bring a neutral, rich creaminess that works seamlessly.
4. Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, adding chili or paprika can transform the soup. A few sprinkles of smoked paprika or a fresh red chili, finely chopped, will create a subtle warmth. For a more intense spice, a dash of harissa paste can elevate the soup with its North African flavors.
5. Roasted Vegetables: For a deeper, caramelized flavor, try roasting vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or cauliflower before adding them to the soup. This gives the soup a smoky depth and sweetness. You can also blend the roasted veggies into the soup for a velvety texture, or keep them in chunks for a rustic, satisfying dish.
6. Crispy Garnishes: Toppings make all the difference, so why not add a crispy garnish to your tzatziki soup? You could try crispy fried onions, crumbled feta, or even toasted pita croutons for a little crunch. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or sunflower seeds adds a nice texture contrast and a nutty flavor.
7. Lemon Zing: If you want the soup to have an extra zing, a splash of lemon juice or zest can brighten the flavors and give it a fresh lift. For a more intense citrus hit, try orange zest in place of lemon for a slightly sweeter, more aromatic profile.

By playing with these variations, you can make Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup fit any occasion or personal taste. Whether you’re looking to make it heartier, spicier, or lighter, there’s a creative variation to suit your needs.

Storing Leftovers

Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup is delightful fresh, but if you have leftovers, you’re in luck! This soup keeps quite well in the fridge, and with a few simple steps, you can store it safely and enjoy it for up to three days. Here’s how to store your leftovers effectively:

1. Refrigerating: To store the soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. If the soup is served cold, as often preferred with tzatziki-inspired dishes, store it in the fridge immediately after cooling. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any odors from the fridge from seeping in.
2. Freezing: While freezing is an option, tzatziki soup’s creamy texture may not hold up as well once thawed. If you decide to freeze the soup, consider separating the liquid and solid parts. You can freeze the soup base (the yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and herbs) in one container and store any chunky additions (like vegetables or proteins) separately. When reheating, add the toppings and garnishes fresh to avoid them becoming soggy.
3. Reheating: If you stored the soup in the fridge, it can be gently reheated on the stove. Be careful not to bring it to a boil, as high heat can cause the yogurt to separate and lose its creamy texture. If you’re reheating a large portion, do so gradually, stirring occasionally. For those who enjoy cold soup, you can always serve it directly from the fridge, which also keeps the refreshing, chilled element intact.
4. Stir Well Before Serving: After storing, you might notice that the yogurt and cucumber have separated a little. Simply stir well before serving to bring the soup back to its original creamy consistency. Fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice can also help rejuvenate the flavors if they’ve dulled in the fridge.

Remember that leftovers are best consumed within three days for optimal flavor and texture. After that, the soup might begin to lose its freshness, particularly if it’s been frozen. But even after a few days in the fridge, it will still be a tasty, light meal or snack.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup?

Tzatziki soup is versatile and can be paired with a variety of dishes, whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main course. Here are some ideas to complement the refreshing, creamy soup:

1. Warm Flatbreads or Pita: There’s nothing quite like dipping a piece of warm, soft pita or flatbread into a bowl of tzatziki soup. The bread absorbs the cooling soup, and together they make a satisfying bite. You can even toast the flatbread for a bit of extra crunch, or drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar for a Middle Eastern twist.
2. Grilled Meats: Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup pairs beautifully with grilled meats. Consider serving it with grilled lamb skewers, chicken kebabs, or even roasted pork. The smoky, savory flavors from the grilled meats contrast perfectly with the tangy soup, making for a balanced and hearty meal.
3. Greek Salad: To keep things fresh and light, a Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese would complement the flavors of the tzatziki soup beautifully. The crispy veggies and briny feta will balance the smooth, creamy texture of the soup, creating a well-rounded meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: If you want to keep the meal vegetarian, roasted vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers make for an excellent pairing. Roasting these vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and smoky depth, and their richness balances out the coolness of the soup. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt will enhance their flavor even further.
5. Hummus and Olives: Serve the soup with a platter of hummus and marinated olives for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. The creamy hummus will echo the yogurt’s texture in the soup, while the olives provide a briny contrast. Add a few slices of cucumber or cherry tomatoes on the side for extra crunch and freshness.
6. Rice or Couscous: For a heartier option, serve the soup alongside a bowl of rice or couscous. A lemony, herbed couscous or pilaf pairs nicely with the refreshing flavors of the soup, providing a neutral base that complements the more pronounced tastes.
7. Cheese Plate: To add variety and sophistication, a small cheese plate with a selection of tangy cheeses, such as feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar, can be a wonderful addition. The cheeses’ saltiness and creaminess will blend perfectly with the soup.

The best pairings for Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup all depend on whether you’re looking for a light meal or something a bit more filling. With a few side dishes, you can take this soup to a whole new level.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup is a light, flavorful dish that stands out for its simplicity and versatility. Its base of yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, and herbs provides a refreshing and tangy taste that can easily be customized with a variety of additions and variations. Whether you choose to make it heartier with proteins, add a spicy kick, or take it in a more herbaceous direction, the possibilities for variation are endless.

When it comes to storing leftovers, the soup keeps well in the fridge for a few days, although freezing may affect its creamy texture. Pairing the soup with warm flatbreads, grilled meats, or a Greek salad will elevate the dish and make it even more satisfying.

Ultimately, Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup is the perfect dish to enjoy as a starter, light meal, or accompaniment to a larger spread. With its cool, creamy base and bright flavors, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to return to again and again.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup Recipe?

Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup requires a mix of fresh ingredients for a refreshing, creamy texture. The main ingredients include Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs like mint and dill. You will also need vegetable or chicken stock to create the soup base. For seasoning, salt and pepper are used to taste.

Can Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup Be Served Hot Or Cold?

Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup is traditionally served cold, making it a perfect summer dish. The cool, creamy texture from the Greek yogurt, combined with the fresh cucumber and herbs, is incredibly refreshing. However, you can also serve it warm if you prefer a different experience, though it is typically enjoyed chilled.

How Long Does It Take To Make Mary Berry’s Tzatziki Soup?

The preparation time for Mary Berry’s tzatziki soup is relatively quick. It usually takes around 20-30 minutes to prep the ingredients, with an additional 10-15 minutes for blending and chilling if you wish to serve it cold. So, in total, the recipe can be completed in about 40-45 minutes, depending on your prep speed.