Chilled Beet & Cucumber Garden Soup

1. Cook the beets

Place the shredded beets in a large soup pot and add the water, tomato paste, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This brief cooking time ensures that the beets become tender while retaining a pleasant crunch. You'll know it's ready when the steam starts to escape from the partially covered pot.

2. Cool the mixture

Once the beets are done, remove the pot from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. This step is crucial as it helps the flavors meld together and makes the soup refreshing when served chilled.

3. Process vegetables and bread

In a food processor, combine half of the chopped cucumber, tomatoes, onion, one cup of the cooled beet mixture, the slice of bread, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice. Process this mixture for about 15 seconds until it reaches a chunky but cohesive texture. The bread should blend in without leaving noticeable pieces, providing a subtle thickness to the soup.

4. Pulse remaining vegetables and cilantro

Add the remaining cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro to the food processor. Pulse the mixture about ten times. This ensures that the vegetables are distributed evenly throughout the soup without becoming too finely chopped, maintaining a delightful, rustic texture.

5. Combine and season

Combine the processed vegetable mixture with the remaining beet mixture in a large container. Season the soup with freshly ground black pepper and additional salt to taste. Stir well to make sure all the ingredients are well-incorporated.

6. Chill the soup

Pour the soup into a container, cover it, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until you are ready to serve. Chilling the soup not only enhances its flavors but also makes it refreshingly cool, perfect for a hot day.

7. Serve and garnish

When you are ready to serve, garnish each bowl with slices of avocado. The creamy avocado complements the earthy beets and crisp vegetables, adding a rich texture to each bite.