Gazpacho Andaluz, a classic dish from the Andalusian region of Spain, is a refreshing and vibrant cold soup that perfectly embodies the flavors of summer. This variation on the traditional recipe emphasizes a lower salt content while incorporating additional ingredients such as jalapenos and sweet onions to ensure a lively and satisfying taste. Ideal for those seeking a nutritious, vegan, and no-cook meal, this Gazpacho Andaluz is not only quick to prepare but also packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Below, we delve into the recipe details, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions to guide you through crafting this delightful dish.
Recipe Overview
Name: Gazpacho Andaluz
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Description: This variation of Gazpacho Andaluz focuses on low-salt preparation while incorporating ingredients like jalapenos and onions to keep the flavors vibrant and engaging.
Recipe Category: Vegetable
Keywords: Spanish, European, Low Protein, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Spicy, < 60 Mins, No Cook, Small Appliance
Servings: 4
Calories: 242.9 per serving
Fat Content: 14.9 g
Saturated Fat Content: 2.1 g
Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
Sodium Content: 288.9 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 24.8 g
Fiber Content: 4 g
Sugar Content: 8.1 g
Protein Content: 4.4 g
Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic
- 3 sweet onions
- 1 tomato
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread:
- Break up the bread and place it in a bowl with enough water to cover. Allow it to soak until softened. Once softened, squeeze out the excess water and place the bread in a blender.
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Blend the Base:
- Add garlic cloves and chopped jalapeno pepper to the blender with the bread. Blend the mixture until smooth, adding a bit of water if necessary to achieve a smooth consistency.
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- Seed and chop the tomatoes and sweet onions. Add them to the blender with the bread mixture and puree until smooth.
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Season and Flavor:
- Incorporate ground cumin, red wine vinegar, salt, and black pepper into the blender. Blend briefly to mix the spices and vinegar into the puree.
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Add the Olive Oil:
- While the blender is running on low speed, slowly stream in the olive oil. This will help to emulsify the soup, giving it a smooth and creamy texture.
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Adjust Consistency:
- Thin the gazpacho with water to reach your desired consistency. If using canned diced tomatoes, you can reserve the canning liquid and use it to thin the gazpacho instead of water for added flavor.
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Chill the Soup:
- Transfer the gazpacho to a covered container and chill well in the refrigerator. Chilling the soup allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve:
- Serve the gazpacho garnished with thinly sliced green onions, or your choice of chopped cucumber, onion, green pepper, or tomato. Slices of avocado or a sprinkle of cilantro can also make for a visually appealing and flavorful garnish.
Tips for Enhancing Your Gazpacho
- Keep it Fresh: Fresh tomatoes are key to a vibrant gazpacho. However, if using canned tomatoes, opt for the no-salt-added variety to control the sodium content. The canning liquid from these tomatoes can be a great addition for thinning the soup while adding flavor.
- Adjusting Acidity: If you prefer a tangier gazpacho, consider adding a bit more red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice. This can also compensate for the reduced salt.
- Heat Level: For those who enjoy a spicier kick, increasing the amount of jalapeno or adding a splash of hot sauce can elevate the heat profile.
- Flavor Depth: Cumin adds a warm, earthy note to the gazpacho. Experimenting with additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can introduce new layers of flavor.
- Nutritional Boost: Adding more vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value. Consider incorporating bell peppers, cucumbers, or zucchini into the blend.
- Texture Variation: For a chunkier texture, reserve some of the chopped vegetables and stir them into the blended soup before chilling.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional profile of this Gazpacho Andaluz reflects its wholesome and balanced composition. With a focus on low sodium, it still provides a satisfying amount of flavor and essential nutrients. Here is a detailed breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 242.9 kcal
- Total Fat: 14.9 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 288.9 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24.8 g
- Dietary Fiber: 4 g
- Sugars: 8.1 g
- Protein: 4.4 g
This nutritional profile makes the gazpacho an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing taste. The presence of healthy fats from olive oil, dietary fiber from vegetables, and a moderate amount of carbohydrates and protein makes it a balanced dish suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan and low-cholesterol diets.
Conclusion
Gazpacho Andaluz is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Spanish cuisine. Its refreshing nature, combined with the robust flavors of garlic, jalapeno, and cumin, creates a symphony of taste that is both satisfying and nourishing. This version, with its emphasis on low salt and vibrant ingredients, offers a modern twist on a classic, making it suitable for contemporary dietary needs without losing its authentic charm.
Whether enjoyed as a light lunch on a hot summer day or as a starter for an elaborate dinner, this gazpacho is sure to delight your palate and impress your guests. Embrace the ease of preparation and the burst of flavors with each spoonful, and let this Gazpacho Andaluz become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Additional Suggestions
- Serving Ideas: Pair your gazpacho with crusty bread or a side of olives for a traditional Spanish touch. A glass of chilled white wine or sangria can complement the meal beautifully.
- Storage: Gazpacho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, often tasting even better the next day.
- Customizing for Dietary Needs: For those on a gluten-free diet, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread or omit it entirely, though this may affect the texture slightly. Adjust the consistency with more vegetables or additional water as needed.
- Experiment with Toppings: Beyond the traditional garnishes, try adding a dollop of vegan yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for a unique twist.
Enjoy crafting and savoring this delightful Gazpacho Andaluz, and may it bring a taste of Spain to your table with every spoonful!
