Gazpacho Salad

Gazpacho Salad: An Explosion of Color and Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t dream of a refreshing salad, full of vitamins and vibrant colors, that brings a touch of health every day? Gazpacho Salad is a true feast for the senses, a modern reinterpretation of the famous Spanish soup, perfect for hot summer days. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also an excellent source of nutrients, ideal for revitalizing the body. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure and create this delicacy together!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 ripe mango
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 large, fleshy, and sweet tomato (or 3 smaller tomatoes)
- 200 g celery
- 3-4 small cucumbers
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- Juice of half a lemon
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 100 ml high-quality tomato juice
- 1 bunch of parsley
- Fresh salad leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables and fruits. Ensure that the mango and avocado are ripe to achieve a creamy texture and sweet taste in the salad.

2. Cutting the vegetables:
- Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, then slice them into thin rounds. This will add a crunchy note to the salad.
- After washing, you can slice the tomatoes and then halve them for easier integration into the salad.
- Peel the avocado and mango, remove the pits, and cut them into cubes. These fruits will bring a tropical flavor and pleasant texture to the dish.
- Clean the celery and cut it into thin strips for added freshness.
- The yellow bell pepper should be diced into small cubes, adding a color contrast and sweet aroma.

3. Preparing the ginger: Use a teaspoon to peel the ginger, then finely grate it. Ginger not only adds a spicy flavor but also has numerous health benefits, such as aiding digestion.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the prepared vegetables and fruits. Add olive oil, lemon juice, tomato juice, salt, pepper, and grated ginger. Mix well to combine the flavors.

5. Serving: Arrange the salad leaves on plates, creating a bed of greenery. Place a portion of the prepared salad on each plate, arranging it nicely for an appetizing appearance.

6. Serving suggestion: This salad pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh, crunchy ciabatta bread that can be used to scoop up the salad from the plate!

Useful tips and tricks:

- Calories and nutritional benefits: This salad is low in calories, having about 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the amount of olive oil used. It is rich in fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), antioxidants, and healthy fats from the avocado.
- Possible variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or radishes, or add proteins like tuna or grilled chicken to make the salad heartier.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use store-bought tomato juice? Yes, make sure it is high quality and without additives.
- How long does the salad last in the fridge? It is recommended to consume it immediately after preparation, but it can be stored for 1-2 days in an airtight container.
- What other drinks pair well with this salad? A dry white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail are excellent choices.

Personal story: I fondly remember a warm summer when a friend prepared a Gazpacho salad for a picnic. I savored every bite, and the aroma of fresh tomatoes mixed with the sweetness of the mango was simply divine. Since then, this recipe has become a favorite of mine, reminding me of beautiful moments spent with loved ones.

Gazpacho Salad is not just a recipe, but a true celebration of summer! Try it and enjoy every healthy and colorful bite. Bon appétit!