Discover the ultimate Gazpacho recipe – a refreshing cold Spanish soup perfect for hot days! This easy-to-make recipe blends ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sweet peppers, aromatic garlic, and rich olive oil into a delicious, chilled soup that's both healthy and satisfying. Ideal for a light lunch or appetizer, this Gazpacho is packed with vibrant flavors and nutrients. Follow our simple steps to enjoy this classic Spanish dish in no time!

Ingredients:

- 6 ripe tomatoes, chopped

- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped

- 1 red bell pepper, chopped

- 1 green bell pepper, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables:

  - In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic.

Blend:

  - Blend until the mixture is smooth. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little water to reach your desired consistency.

Season:

  - Add the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend again until well combined.

Chill:

  - Transfer the soup to a large bowl or pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the soup to chill.

Serve:

  - Stir the soup before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy cold!

This Gazpacho recipe offers a delightful taste of Spain and is perfect for enjoying on a hot summer day.

Nutritional Value

Ripe Tomatoes (6, chopped)

  - Calories: 120

  - Carbohydrates: 28g

  - Protein: 6g

  - Fat: 1g

  - Fiber: 6g

Benefits: Tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, which may reduce the risk of certain diseases and support heart health.

Cucumber (1, peeled and chopped)

  - Calories: 16

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Fiber: 1g

Benefits: Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water content. They provide hydration and contain vitamins K and C, along with antioxidants that support overall health.

Red Bell Pepper (1, chopped)

  - Calories: 30

  - Carbohydrates: 7g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Fiber: 2g

Benefits: Red bell peppers are high in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and carotenoids. They support immune function, skin health, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

Green Bell Pepper (1, chopped)

  - Calories: 25

  - Carbohydrates: 6g

  - Protein: 1g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Fiber: 2g

Benefits: Green bell peppers are rich in vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. They offer similar benefits to red bell peppers but are slightly lower in calories.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

  - Calories: 10

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Protein: 0.5g

  - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Garlic has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It can improve heart health, boost the immune system, and has antimicrobial effects.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: 480

  - Fat: 54g (Monounsaturated Fat: 38g)

Benefits: Olive oil provides healthy fats and antioxidants, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation. It can help improve cholesterol levels.

Red Wine Vinegar (2 tablespoons)

  - Calories: 10

Benefits: Red wine vinegar contains acetic acid, which can aid in digestion and may have a beneficial impact on blood sugar levels.

Salt (to taste)

  - Calories: 0

Benefits: Salt enhances flavor but should be used in moderation due to its sodium content, which can contribute to high blood pressure if consumed excessively.

Black Pepper (to taste)

  - Calories: Negligible

Benefits: Black pepper adds flavor and contains piperine, which may enhance digestion and nutrient absorption, as well as having antioxidant properties.

Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional, for garnish)

  - Calories: 5 (per tablespoon of fresh herbs)

Benefits: Both basil and parsley provide vitamins (especially A and C) and antioxidants. They add flavor with minimal calories and can have digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits.

These ingredients combine to create a fresh, nutritious dish with a variety of vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats, contributing to overall health and flavor.