Perfect for sunny days, Vichyssoise is a refined soup that is served cold, rather like gazpacho. However, it is still delicious served hot. Created at the beginning of the XXᵉ century by a French chef in New York for the opening of the terrace at the Ritz-Carlton, it quickly became a classic. Based on leeks, potatoes and cream, it is a simple, velvety and elegant soup. I've been making it for years and always associate it with fond memories: the first time I tasted it was at my husband's friend's house - but it was actually his mum who had made it!