Name: Chilled Pineapple Soup with Cotija Cheese and Basil
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: PT-488189H44M49S
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 3 cups pineapple (core removed); 1 tablespoon lime juice; 3 tablespoons guava juice; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3 dates (pitted); 1 tablespoon fresh basil; ½ cup coconut cream; ¼ cup ripe banana; Garnish: 1 tablespoon cotija cheese

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is not only eye-catching and delicious, but also:

Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required
Naturally gluten-free, egg-free, nut-free, soy-free, and vegetarian
Perfectly chilled for summer picnics, brunches, or as a unique starter
Packed with fruit-based nutrients and a creamy texture without dairy
A great make-ahead option that stays fresh for days

Chilled Pineapple Soup with Cotija Cheese and Basil

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 cups pineapple (1 whole pineapple with core removed)
1 tablespoon lime juice (juice from 1 whole lime)
3 tablespoons guava juice
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 dates (remove the pits)
1 tablespoon fresh basil
½ cup coconut cream
¼ cup ripe banana

Garnish:

1 tablespoon cotija cheese

Directions

Add all ingredients (except the garnish) to a high-powered blender such as a Vitamix.
Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
Transfer to a container and chill in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours.
When ready to serve, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of cotija cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 bowls of soup.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling)
Calories per serving: 203 kcal

Variations

Vegan version: Skip the cotija cheese or replace with a plant-based cheese crumble.
Add spice: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a slice of jalapeño before blending for a spicy twist.
Tropical twist: Blend in mango or papaya for added complexity.
Minty freshness: Substitute or combine basil with fresh mint for a refreshing herbal note.
Protein boost: Add a scoop of plant-based protein powder or a handful of soaked cashews.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The soup will remain fresh for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving as separation may occur. This soup is intended to be served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

1. What type of pineapple should I use?

Fresh or frozen pineapple works best. Avoid canned pineapple as it can be overly sweet and lacks the fresh acidity needed for this soup.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture, especially due to the coconut cream and banana.

4. Is this soup vegan?

The base soup is vegan, but the cotija cheese garnish is not. Use a vegan cheese alternative or omit it for a fully vegan version.

5. How sweet is this soup?

It has a natural sweetness from pineapple, banana, and dates, balanced with citrus juice. It’s sweet but not dessert-like.

6. Can I use canned coconut milk instead of coconut cream?

Yes, use the thick part of canned full-fat coconut milk as a substitute for coconut cream.

7. What can I use instead of guava juice?

You can use orange juice or passion fruit juice for a slightly different tropical note.

8. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

This is a fruit-based gazpacho, so vegetables aren’t typically included, but a small amount of cucumber could be added for extra freshness.

9. Does the banana flavor overpower the soup?

No, the banana adds creaminess and subtle sweetness but does not dominate the flavor profile.

10. Is this soup suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s naturally sweet, smooth, and refreshing, making it appealing to children as well.

Conclusion

Chilled Pineapple Soup with Cotija Cheese and Basil is a flavorful, refreshing, and easy-to-make dish that adds a tropical flair to your summer menu. Whether you’re hosting a garden brunch or simply need a cooling treat, this soup offers a delicious escape with minimal effort. Try it once, and it might just become your warm-weather favorite.

Lily