Gazpacho

Gazpacho – A Refreshing Spanish Soup

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Gazpacho, this fresh and invigorating soup, is a symbol of summer and healthy eating. Originating from southern Europe, this recipe has become a worldwide favorite due to its refined combination of fresh vegetables and delicate texture. Gazpacho is not just a soup; it is an explosion of flavors and colors, perfect for warm days or as an appetizer for an elegant dinner. Moreover, it is a simple, quick recipe and, above all, extremely healthy.

Ingredients:

- 800 g ripe tomatoes (preferably summer)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- ½ head of garlic (about 7 cloves)
- 1 medium red onion
- A generous handful of fresh parsley
- 30 g fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste (optional)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
- Croutons (optional, for texture)
- Feta cheese or telemea (optional, for serving)

Preparing Gazpacho Soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables very well. Cut the tomatoes into quarters, the peppers into large pieces, and the onion and garlic into smaller pieces. It is important that the vegetables are fresh, as the flavor of the gazpacho depends on the quality of the ingredients.

2. Blending the vegetables: Place all the chopped vegetables in a blender. It is better to blend them in batches if your blender is not very large. Blend on high speed until you achieve a smooth paste. The texture should be fine but not overly liquid – a smoothie is way too much!

3. Adding the greens: Add the parsley and fresh basil. Blend again to incorporate the greens into the mixture. This will add not only flavor but also a vibrant and attractive color.

4. Seasoning: Add the salt and vinegar. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you enjoy the flavor of garlic, you can add more cloves, but be careful, as it can become too strong. If you prefer a spicier taste, add a little pepper as well.

5. Chilling: Once you have a homogeneous mixture, place the gazpacho in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Serving it cold is essential to achieve that refreshing effect.

6. Serving: When you are ready to serve, take the gazpacho out of the refrigerator and add ice cubes to each bowl. You can top it with crunchy croutons and a few pieces of feta cheese or telemea for a savory contrast.

Serving Suggestions and Combinations:

Gazpacho pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread or flavored bruschetta. You can experiment by adding other ingredients such as diced avocado or black olives to give it a unique touch. If you want to turn this soup into a main dish, try serving it with lightly seasoned whole grain pasta.

Nutritional Benefits:

Gazpacho is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to the fresh vegetables that form its base. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant, while peppers contribute a significant dose of vitamin A. This soup is also low in calories, making it a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Cucumbers are a popular addition, and carrots or celery can provide a different flavor.

2. Can gazpacho be made a day in advance?
Yes, definitely! In fact, the flavor will intensify and become even more delicious.

3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, gazpacho is a completely vegan soup, perfect for anyone looking to avoid animal products.

Possible Variations:

If you want to add a different note, you can try using roasted or smoked tomatoes to add a unique flavor. You can also include spices such as cumin or smoked paprika to change its flavor profile.

In conclusion, gazpacho is a simple yet sophisticated recipe that perfectly blends the flavors of fresh vegetables and greens. With every spoonful, you will enjoy an explosion of tastes, making this soup a favorite both on hot summer days and cool evenings. Don't hesitate to play with the ingredients and bring your personal touch, transforming this classic recipe into a truly customized delight. Enjoy!