Gazpacho Andaluz Recipe
Overview:
Gazpacho Andaluz, a refreshing Spanish chilled soup, is akin to chili in its variability—each rendition unique to the maker’s touch. This recipe, originating from a college Spanish textbook, has been a staple for years, perfect for scorching days or a light, drinkable snack.
Recipe Information:
- Category: Lunch/Snacks 🥗
- Keywords: Vegetable, Spanish, European, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Potluck, Spring, Summer, Weeknight, No Cook, Refrigerator, Small Appliance, Easy 🍅🥒🥖
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 5 hours (includes soaking time)
- Total Time: 5 hours
- Calories: 256.9 per serving
- Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Fat: 20.8g
- Saturated Fat: 2.9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 44.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 16.7g
- Fiber: 3.2g
- Sugar: 9.2g
- Protein: 2.8g
Ingredients:
- 3 large tomatoes 🍅
- 1/2 bell pepper 🫑
- 1 stale baguette 🥖
- 3/4 cup olive oil 🫒
- 1 onion 🧅
- 1 cucumber 🥒
- 2 carrots 🥕
- 2 garlic cloves 🧄
- 1/2 cup water 💧
- 1/2 tsp paprika 🌶️
- 1/2 tbsp salt 🧂
- Optional: hard-boiled egg for garnish 🥚
Instructions:
-
Prep the Bread and Cucumber:
- Begin by chopping the cucumber and placing it in a bowl with the stale baguette and water.
- Ensure the water saturates the bread without drowning it. Add up to 1/2 tbsp of salt to the water and let it soak.
- If your baguette is too fresh, leave it out in the sun for a few hours to harden.
-
Prepare the Tomatoes:
- Peel the skin off the tomatoes. Ripe tomatoes are easier to peel and offer the best flavor.
- If the tomatoes are stubborn, briefly plunge them into hot water to loosen the skin.
-
Blend the Ingredients:
- Pass the peeled tomatoes through a blender until smooth.
- Combine the remaining soup ingredients in the blender, including the soaked baguette and cucumber. Blend until well mixed.
- Blend the two batches together until thoroughly combined. Adjust the seasoning with salt and vinegar to taste.
- If the soup tastes too strongly of bell pepper, consider adding a few more peeled tomatoes to balance the flavors.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the gazpacho for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prior to serving, top with garnishes like diced cucumber, bell pepper, or a slice of hard-boiled egg, if desired.
- Enjoy the refreshing gazpacho on a hot day or as a delightful snack!
-
Vegan Option:
- For a vegan-friendly version, simply omit the hard-boiled egg garnish.
Serving Suggestions:
Gazpacho Andaluz is best served chilled, making it a perfect dish for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or as a quick and easy weeknight meal. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a satisfying lunch or snack option.
Storage:
Leftover gazpacho can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving, give it a quick stir to redistribute any settled ingredients.
Tips:
- Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes for the best taste.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more salt or vinegar as needed.
- Customize the garnishes to your liking, such as fresh herbs, diced avocado, or a drizzle of olive oil.
- To make ahead, prepare the gazpacho the night before and refrigerate overnight for even more flavorful results.
Enjoy Your Gazpacho Andaluz!
Whether served as a light lunch, refreshing snack, or starter at your next gathering, this Gazpacho Andaluz recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. Cheers to enjoying the taste of summer any time of year! 🍅🥒🌞