Classic Vichyssoise Soup (Creamy Leek & Potato)


Hi, I'm Rachelle
The Vivacious Gourmet
I cook delicious healthy recipes that are simple to make, with wholesome fresh ingredients.
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Classic Vichyssoise Soup: The Perfect Summer Chiller
Keep yourself hydrated and cool this summer with my Classic Vichyssoise Soup! This light and refreshing recipe is super easy to make and hits the spot, especially during those hot and humid days.
A Creamy Delight
Essentially a creamy leek and potato soup, there’s something undeniably delicious about this combo that keeps you coming back for more. One of the best things about Vichyssoise is its versatility—you can enjoy it warm or cold, but I definitely prefer the chilled version during the summer months. It makes for a delightful starter to any summertime meal!
Vegetarian Twist
In my version, I opt for a vegetarian approach, but you can easily use regular milk or cream and chicken stock if you prefer a richer taste. This adaptability makes it a fantastic option for a variety of dietary preferences.
Storage and Garnishes
You can store the soup for about three days in the refrigerator, or freeze it for later enjoyment. When serving, I love garnishing my Vichyssoise with fresh dill, chives, or small diced cucumbers for an extra burst of freshness.
Let’s Make Some Soup!
Gather your ingredients, and let’s whip up a batch of Classic Vichyssoise Soup that will keep you cool and satisfied all summer long! Enjoy every creamy spoonful of this delightful dish!
Ingredients for Classic Vichyssoise Soup
To create my refreshing Classic Vichyssoise Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Unsalted Butter: You can use salted butter, but be cautious not to add too much salt to the soup.
- Large Leeks: Use only the white and light green parts for a milder flavour.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is best for that aromatic kick.
- Potatoes: Any white potato works well; they provide a creamy texture.
- Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme adds a lovely herbal note.
- Kosher Sea Salt: To season the soup to your taste.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: For a touch of heat and flavour.
- Vegetable Stock: Use chicken stock if you prefer a richer taste.
- Oat or Almond Milk: A dairy-free option; you can also substitute with cream or regular milk if you have it on hand.
- Fresh Dill: Optional, but it adds a refreshing element to the soup.
- Cucumbers: Optional, but diced cucumbers provide a nice crunch in the cold version.
Let’s Get Cooking!
With these fresh ingredients, you’re ready to whip up a delicious Classic Vichyssoise Soup that’s perfect for cooling off during those warm summer days! Gather everything, and let’s get started! Enjoy every delicious bowl!

Pro Tips:
- Use yellow-fleshed baking potatoes for the best texture in this soup.
- Be sure to wash the leeks well, scrubbing between the layers to remove any sand and grit, before chopping them.
- You should only use the white and pale green portion of a leek, not the darker green upper leaves.

Classic Vichyssoise Soup (Creamy Leek & Potato)
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
- 3 large leeks white and light green parts only, sliced thinly
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 potatoes peeled and chopped small
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable stock chicken stock will do
- 1 cup oat or almond milk
- Optional: Fresh dill & cucumbers for garnish
Instructions
- Melt butter in medium pot.
- Add in sliced leeks over medium to low heat, careful not to burn. Add in garlic. Keep stirring for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add in potatoes and chicken stock.
- Add in seasoning of thyme, salt & pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium. Cook for approximately 10-15 more minutes.
- Once potatoes are tender, add in milk of choice.
- Remove from heat. Purée all ingredients until smooth.
- Place soup in fridge for minimum 3-4 hours until cool. (I usually leave overnight.)
- Place cooled soup in bowl and garnish with fresh dill and diced cucumbers. Eat and Enjoy!
If you liked this recipe, you should check out some of my other fantastic soup recipes including Savoury Pumpkin Ginger Soup with Crispy Sage or my Vegan Cream of Asparagus.

This is one of my favourite soups and reminds me of my time in France as a kid!
Thanks for sharing this healthier version. Much appreciated.
I wonder how much work goes into creating a website this excellent and educational. I’ve read a few really good things here, and it’s definitely worth saving for future visits.
Can you freeze this soup?
Hi Terri, Absolutely you can! You can add your garnishes after, which really make this soup taste super good! I hope you check out some of my other great soup recipes too!
Really loved making this Vichyssoise. I added half and half at the end and it made the soup very creamy.
Hi Eileen, That sounds lovely! I am so glad you enjoyed it. I hope you check out some of my other great soup recipes. :)
This soup is great served hot too!!
Thank you so much for stopping by my page Edith! I am so happy you tried this recipe and I hope you get to try some others on my blog!
In France, in actual fact, the hot version of this soup was called ‘soupe Parmentier‘! The cold version was ‘invented’ later by the chef!
Incredible work as always! Your content never disappoints!
A friend made and served this to us recently and I am eager to make it, myself, now! It was really delicious and I’m eager to check out the rest of your recipes.
Hi Lynne,
Thank you so much for your lovely comment and support! I hope you enjoy the other recipes on my blog. Cheers, Rachelle
Actually it was ‘invented by a French chef working at the Ritz Carlton in New York City … a great American soup.
Thanks for the super recipe. Amazing that it is lactose free. I put a little pitcher of cream on the table.
Thanks Laine! What a wonderful invention it was. I am so glad you enjoyed the recipe. I hope you get to check out more on the blog. Happy Cooking, Rachelle