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.
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