**Gazpacho: A Refreshing and Versatile Spanish Soup**
Gazpacho is a traditional Spanish cold soup made primarily from fresh, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, green bell peppers, garlic, and olive oil. Originating in the southern region of Andalusia, this chilled soup is a staple of Spanish cuisine, particularly during the hot summer months. Its vibrant red color, bursting with the flavors of sun-ripened tomatoes and crisp vegetables, makes it a refreshing and healthy choice. Gazpacho's versatility allows for variations in ingredients and flavors, leading to diverse recipes that cater to various preferences. Whether you prefer a classic gazpacho or one with a modern twist, this article presents a collection of recipes that showcase the essence of this beloved Spanish soup. From traditional recipes passed down through generations to innovative interpretations using unique ingredients, these gazpacho recipes offer a delightful journey through the culinary heritage of Spain.
GAZPACHO
For fresh veggie-packed refreshment, try Ina Garten's Gazpacho soup recipe from Barefoot Contessa on Food Network; it's best served cold on a hot summer day.
Provided by Ina Garten
Categories appetizer
Time 20m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Roughly chop the cucumbers, bell peppers, tomatoes, and red onions into 1-inch cubes. Put each vegetable separately into a food processor fitted with a steel blade and pulse until it is coarsely chopped. Do not overprocess!
- After each vegetable is processed, combine them in a large bowl and add the garlic, tomato juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and chill before serving. The longer gazpacho sits, the more the flavors develop.
BEST GAZPACHO
More of a drink than a soup, served in frosted glasses or chilled tumblers, gazpacho is perfect when it is too hot to eat but you need cold, salt and lunch all at the same time. Gazpacho is everywhere in Seville, Spain, where this recipe comes from, but it's not the watered-down salsa or grainy vegetable purée often served in the United States. This version has no bread and is a creamy orange-pink rather than a lipstick red. That is because a large quantity of olive oil is required for making delicious gazpacho, rather than take-it-or-leave it gazpacho. The emulsion of red tomato juice, palest green cucumber juice and golden olive oil produces the right color and a smooth, almost fluffy texture.
Provided by Julia Moskin
Categories dinner, easy, lunch, quick, soups and stews, appetizer
Time 20m
Yield 8 to 12 servings, about 1 quart
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Combine tomatoes, pepper, cucumber, onion and garlic in a blender or, if using a hand blender, in a deep bowl. (If necessary, work in batches.) Blend at high speed until very smooth, at least 2 minutes, pausing occasionally to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula.
- With the motor running, add the vinegar and 2 teaspoons salt. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil. The mixture will turn bright orange or dark pink and become smooth and emulsified, like a salad dressing. If it still seems watery, drizzle in more olive oil until texture is creamy.
- Strain the mixture through a strainer or a food mill, pushing all the liquid through with a spatula or the back of a ladle. Discard the solids. Transfer to a large pitcher (preferably glass) and chill until very cold, at least 6 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, adjust the seasonings with salt and vinegar. If soup is very thick, stir in a few tablespoons ice water. Serve in glasses, over ice if desired, or in a bowl. A few drops of olive oil on top are a nice touch.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 122, UnsaturatedFat 9 grams, Carbohydrate 6 grams, Fat 11 grams, Fiber 2 grams, Protein 1 gram, SaturatedFat 2 grams, Sodium 365 milligrams, Sugar 4 grams
GAZPACHO
Wonderful cold soup full of fresh Mediterranean vegetables! Quick and easy.
Provided by Kara
Categories Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes Soup Recipes Vegetable Soup Recipes Gazpacho Recipes
Time 2h20m
Yield 10
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a blender or food processor, combine tomato juice, onion, bell pepper, cucumber, tomatoes, green onions, garlic, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, tarragon, basil, parsley, sugar, salt, and pepper. Blend until well-combined but still slightly chunky. Chill at least 2 hours before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 38.7 calories, Carbohydrate 9.2 g, Fat 0.2 g, Fiber 1.6 g, Protein 1.6 g, Sodium 304.8 mg, Sugar 5.8 g
Tips:
- To make the smoothest gazpacho, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
- If you don't have time to chill the gazpacho for several hours, you can serve it immediately. It will be just as delicious, but not as refreshing.
- Garnish the gazpacho with your favorite toppings before serving. Some popular options include croutons, chopped cucumber, diced tomatoes, and sliced hard-boiled eggs.
- Gazpacho is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, a refreshing snack, or a healthy dinner.
- Experiment with different variations of gazpacho to find your favorite recipe. There are many different ways to make this delicious soup, so don't be afraid to get creative.
Conclusion:
Gazpacho is a delicious and refreshing soup that is perfect for a hot summer day. It is also a healthy and nutritious meal that is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. If you are looking for a new soup to try, I highly recommend gazpacho. You won't be disappointed!
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