Dive into the vibrant world of Spanish cuisine with our refreshing Gazpacho recipe from Cooking Light! This chilled soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of summer flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you cool on those hot days. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a deliciously healthy dish that serves six, making it perfect for gatherings or a quick family dinner. Ready to impress your friends and family with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty? Let’s get started!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Spanish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups tomato juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Wash all fresh produce thoroughly under cool running water. Pat dry with clean kitchen towels.
- Core and chop the ripe tomatoes into medium-sized chunks, ensuring to capture any juices during chopping.
- Peel the cucumber using a vegetable peeler, then slice and chop into similar-sized pieces as the tomatoes.
- Remove the seeds from the bell pepper, then chop into uniform small pieces.
- Peel and finely mince the red onion and garlic cloves, taking care to create small, consistent pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and minced garlic.
- Pour the tomato juice into the vegetable mixture, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
- Add red wine vinegar to the bowl, which will enhance the soup's tangy flavor profile.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and chill completely.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the chilled gazpacho into serving bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately, preferably on a warm day as a refreshing cold soup.
Tips
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: The key to a flavorful gazpacho is using the ripest tomatoes you can find. Look for ones that are vibrant and slightly soft to the touch for the best taste.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the gazpacho to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes for a refreshing dish on a warm day.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added texture and flavor. Just remember to keep the sizes uniform for even blending.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Before serving, taste your gazpacho and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. A dash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.
- Garnish Creatively: While fresh basil is a classic garnish, consider adding diced avocado, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flair and flavor.
- Serve it Right: For an added touch, serve your gazpacho in chilled bowls or glasses to keep it cool longer, and pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
