The recipe you’re interested in seems to be a traditional Spanish gazpacho soup, often referred to as a Spanish Peasant Soup. This dish is renowned for its refreshing flavors and nutritious profile, making it perfect for warm weather gatherings like picnics or BBQs. Gazpacho is typically characterized by its blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, served cold for a refreshing treat.
Recipe Details:
Name: Spanish Peasant Soup (Gazpacho)
Cook Time: Not applicable (No cooking required)
Prep Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours
Description: This authentic gazpacho recipe is ideal for picnics or BBQs, known for its refreshing qualities. It can be easily scaled up for larger gatherings.
Recipe Category: Lunch/Snacks
Keywords: Vegetable, Spanish, European, Very Low Carbs, Low Protein, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, No Cook, Less than 4 Hours
Ingredients:
- 2 cloves garlic
- 3 tbsp vinegar
- 2 large tomatoes
- 3 green peppers
- 1 cucumber
- 3 cups ice water
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 47.2
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 51.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 10.1g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugars: 3.7g
- Protein: 1.8g
Recipe Instructions:
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In a large bowl, combine the bread and 1 clove of minced garlic. Add vinegar and mix well. Let it stand for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
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After 2 hours, mix in the tomatoes, green peppers, cucumbers, and the remaining 2 cloves of garlic. Ensure everything is well combined.
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Gradually add the ice water to the mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
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Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Detailed Explanation:
Preparation and Ingredients:
Gazpacho starts with soaking bread with garlic and vinegar. This step softens the bread and infuses it with garlic and tangy vinegar, enhancing the soup’s base flavors. The use of fresh tomatoes, green peppers, and cucumbers ensures a vibrant color and crisp texture in every spoonful, highlighting the soup’s vegetable-forward nature.
Chilling Process:
Chilling the gazpacho is crucial as it allows the flavors to marry and intensify. This step also ensures that the soup is served at the optimal temperature for refreshment, making it a delightful choice during hot summer days or as a starter for outdoor meals.
Nutritional Benefits:
Gazpacho is not only delicious but also nutritionally beneficial. It’s low in calories and fat, making it suitable for those watching their weight or looking for a light, yet satisfying meal option. With its high water content from vegetables and hydration from ice water, gazpacho also helps in staying hydrated.
Versatility and Serving Suggestions:
This recipe can be easily adapted by adjusting the amount of ingredients to suit the number of servings needed. It’s versatile enough to serve as a starter or even as a main dish when paired with crusty bread or a side salad. Garnish options such as fresh herbs, diced vegetables, or a drizzle of olive oil can further elevate its presentation and taste.
Cultural Significance:
Gazpacho holds cultural significance in Spanish cuisine, particularly in Andalusia, where it originates. It reflects the region’s emphasis on fresh, local produce and simple preparation methods that highlight the natural flavors of ingredients.
By following these steps, you can recreate an authentic Spanish Peasant Soup (Gazpacho) that’s not only delicious but also a testament to the culinary heritage of Spain, perfect for any occasion where you want to savor the taste of summer in a bowl.
