Chilled Summer Gazpacho Delight
Beat the summer heat with this invigorating Chilled Summer Gazpacho Delight, crafted to tantalize your taste buds and nourish your body. This refreshing blend of garden-fresh vegetables, herbs, and a hint of spice creates a delightful medley that’s perfect for warm days. Packed with vitamins and low in calories, this gazpacho offers a deliciously wholesome alternative to heavy meals. Serve it in a mug as a food-salad fusion, and enjoy its vibrant flavors and textures. It’s simple to make and perfect for gatherings, making it a must-have dish in your summer repertoire.
4
Servings
110
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
onion
1/2 (sliced)
garlic
2 (cloves)
extra virgin olive oil
3 (tablespoons)
red wine vinegar
1/4 (cup)
tomatoes
2 (lbs diced)
cucumber
1 (diced, seeded)
green pepper
1 (diced)
tomato paste
2 (tablespoons)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
cilantro
1/3 (cup chopped)
tomato juice
1/3 (cup)
Tabasco sauce
to taste
sour cream
to taste ((optional for garnish))
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine the sliced onion, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. Blend until smooth.
2
Reserve 1/2 cup of the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and green pepper. Add the remaining tomatoes, cucumber, green pepper, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the processor. Pulse the mixture until it reaches a chunky consistency.
3
Stir in the chopped cilantro and tomato juice. Adjust seasoning to taste, and chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 6 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4
Before serving, ladle the gazpacho into bowls or mugs, garnishing each with the reserved vegetables, a few drops of Tabasco sauce for added kick, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
9g
Carbs
1.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chilled Summer Gazpacho Delight?
It is a refreshing, no-cook cold soup made from a blend of garden-fresh vegetables, herbs, and a hint of spice.
Is this gazpacho recipe vegan?
The base recipe is vegan; simply omit the optional sour cream garnish to keep it strictly plant-based.
How many calories are in a serving of this gazpacho?
Each serving contains approximately 110 calories.
How long should I chill the gazpacho before serving?
For the best flavor, chill the soup in the refrigerator for 1 to 6 hours to let the flavors meld.
Can I make this recipe without a food processor?
Yes, you can finely mince the ingredients by hand, though a food processor is recommended for the initial smooth base.
What are the main vegetables in this recipe?
The primary vegetables used are tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, and onions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed, including the vegetables and tomato juice, are naturally gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
Can I substitute the red wine vinegar?
Yes, you can use sherry vinegar or apple cider vinegar as an alternative, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile.
Is any cooking required for this dish?
No, this is a completely no-cook recipe, making it perfect for hot summer days.
How do I adjust the spiciness of the soup?
You can increase or decrease the amount of Tabasco sauce added at the end to suit your spice preference.
What can I use instead of cilantro?
Fresh flat-leaf parsley is an excellent substitute if you do not enjoy the taste of cilantro.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 7.5g of fat, primarily coming from the extra virgin olive oil.
Can I add extra vegetables to this gazpacho?
Absolutely! You can add finely diced celery, radishes, or yellow bell peppers for more texture.
How much protein is in this soup?
There is approximately 1.8g of protein per serving.
Why is tomato paste used in a cold soup?
Tomato paste adds a rich depth of flavor and helps thicken the soup's consistency.
How do I ensure the gazpacho is chunky rather than smooth?
Pulse the food processor for the second step instead of running it continuously to maintain a chunky texture.
What is the purpose of reserving some diced vegetables?
The reserved vegetables are used as a garnish to provide a fresh crunch and professional presentation.
Is this a low-carb recipe?
Yes, with only 9g of carbohydrates per serving, it is a relatively low-carb option.
How long will leftovers stay fresh?
Leftover gazpacho can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this gazpacho for later use?
Freezing is not recommended as the fresh vegetables will lose their crisp texture once thawed.
What type of olive oil should I use?
Extra virgin olive oil is highly recommended for its superior flavor in raw dishes like this.
Does the recipe require peeling the tomatoes?
Peeling is not necessary for this recipe, especially since it is served with a chunky texture.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 14 ingredients in total, including the optional garnish.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, if you omit the Tabasco sauce, it is a mild and healthy vegetable soup children often enjoy.
What is the best way to serve this at a party?
Serving it in chilled mugs is a fun and easy way for guests to enjoy it as a 'food-salad fusion'.
Can I use fresh tomato juice instead of bottled?
Yes, fresh tomato juice will enhance the vibrant flavor of the gazpacho.
Is there a specific type of onion recommended?
A mild white or yellow onion works best, though a red onion can be used for a sharper bite.
What makes this dish healthy?
It is packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables, uses healthy fats from olive oil, and is low in calories.
Can I add protein like shrimp to this?
Yes, chilled cooked shrimp or crab meat makes a delicious addition for a more filling meal.