Cool and Refreshing Gazpacho
Dive into a bowl of this classic cold Spanish soup to beat the heat! Packed with fresh veggies, it’s the perfect way to bring a touch of summer to your table!
Time Preparation: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Introduction:
Summer is scorching hot, and what better way to cool off than to enjoy a chilled bowl of Gazpacho. This classic Spanish dish is made from fresh vegetables and served cold, making it the perfect meal for warm summer days.
Why make this Gazpacho recipe:
Gazpacho is not only a refreshing meal but is also packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables. It’s a healthy and delicious option for those looking out for their calorie intake. The ease of preparation is another reason you should consider this recipe.
How to make Gazpacho:
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
– 1 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small red onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups tomato juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
– Optional: Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Directions:
1. Combine the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic in a blender, processing until smooth.
2. Pour into a large bowl and stir in the tomato juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow flavors to blend.
4. Serve cold, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if wanted.
How to serve Gazpacho:
Serve your Gazpacho chilled. You can garnish with fresh basil or parsley to give it some green color pop. It’s best enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
How to store Gazpacho:
Gazpacho can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Tips to make Gazpacho:
Ensure your vegetables are ripe and fresh for the best taste. Also, allow enough time for the soup to chill in the refrigerator so that the flavors meld together.
Variation (if any):
For a slight variation, you can add a dash of hot sauce to your Gazpacho for a spicy kick. Also, other vegetables like celery and carrots can be included in the recipe for a more filling soup.
FAQs:
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
– Fresh tomatoes will give the best flavor, but if they are out of season, you can use canned, as long as they are whole and peeled.
2. Can I serve Gazpacho warm?
– Gazpacho is traditionally served cold, but if you prefer, you can serve it at room temperature.
3. How can I make my Gazpacho creamier?
– If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a few pieces of stale bread to the blender. The bread will soak up the liquid and give your Gazpacho a thicker texture.