Low Fat Gazpacho With Twang!
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description:
Gazpacho, a refreshing and vibrant Spanish dish, is known for its cooling, savory flavors, making it perfect for hot summer days. But if you’re looking for something a little different from the usual, this Low Fat Gazpacho with Twang will surely stand out. This unique variation of the classic gazpacho adds a tangy twist while keeping things light and healthy. From the “Weight Watchers Miracle Foods” cookbook, this version is full of flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. You’ll love the subtle infusion of garlic and the fresh, crisp vegetables that come together in this delicious chilled soup.
Each serving of this low-fat gazpacho is only 2 WW points (Weight Watchers Points), making it an ideal choice for anyone mindful of their diet. It’s also packed with vitamins and antioxidants, offering a perfect balance of flavors without the guilt. Let the soup chill for 30 minutes or longer to bring out its full potential. Whether served as an appetizer or a light summer meal, this gazpacho is a refreshing addition to any table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes (with onion and garlic) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Cucumber | 1 medium |
| Green Pepper | 3/4 of a pepper |
| Green Onion | 1/2 cup |
| Red Wine Vinegar | 1/3 cup |
| Garlic Clove | 1 clove, minced |
| Salt | 1/8 tsp |
| Ground Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Fat-Free Croutons | 1/8 cup |
| Vegetable Juice (or tomato juice) | 12 oz (or as needed) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 22.1 kcal |
| Fat Content | 0.1 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 0 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 315 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 5.2 g |
| Fiber Content | 1.1 g |
| Sugar Content | 3 g |
| Protein Content | 0.9 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by finely dicing the cucumber, green pepper, and green onion. For the tomatoes, you can use fresh ones or a can of diced tomatoes (preferably with onions and garlic for added flavor). If you opt for fresh tomatoes, chop them into small pieces. -
Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the vegetables: the diced tomatoes, cucumber, green pepper, and green onion. Add the minced garlic clove, salt, and ground pepper to the bowl. Pour in the red wine vinegar and add the vegetable juice (or tomato juice). The vegetable juice will help thin the mixture slightly to the perfect gazpacho consistency. If you prefer a thinner soup, feel free to add a little more vegetable juice. -
Adjust the Consistency:
Stir all the ingredients together to fully combine. At this point, check the consistency of your soup. If it’s too thick for your liking, you can add a splash more of vegetable juice until it reaches the desired texture. -
Chill:
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill. Allow the gazpacho to chill for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, leave it in the fridge for 2 hours to allow the flavors to fully meld together. -
Serve:
To serve, ladle one cup of the chilled gazpacho into each bowl. Top with a few fat-free croutons for a bit of crunch, and garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if you desire. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Best Gazpacho
- Choose the Right Tomatoes: While fresh tomatoes are wonderful, using canned tomatoes with added flavor (like those with garlic or onion) can enhance the depth of your gazpacho.
- Add a Little Kick: If you want to add a bit of heat to your gazpacho, consider tossing in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you’re mixing the ingredients.
- Let It Rest: Chilling the gazpacho is key to allowing the flavors to come together. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes, so don’t rush the chilling time.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like celery, carrots, or tomatoes primavera (which may contain carrots and zucchini, as I used in my version).
- Make It Ahead: This soup is great for prepping ahead of time, and it actually tastes even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Gazpacho
- Light and Refreshing: Perfect for summer, this gazpacho offers a cool, refreshing flavor profile without the heavy feeling of traditional soups.
- Low in Calories and Fat: With only 22 calories and 0.1 grams of fat per serving, it’s a great choice for anyone watching their calorie intake or following a weight loss plan.
- No Cooking Required: Unlike many soups that require stovetop or oven time, this gazpacho requires no cooking. Simply chop, mix, and chill – it’s that easy!
- Packed with Nutrients: With fresh vegetables and just a splash of vinegar, this soup is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that will nourish your body and refresh your palate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use other types of vinegar?
A: While red wine vinegar adds a nice tang, you can certainly use white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even a bit of balsamic vinegar if you prefer a sweeter, deeper flavor.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Gazpacho is a versatile soup, so feel free to add other vegetables such as celery, carrots, or even a bit of avocado for creaminess.
Q: How long does the gazpacho last in the fridge?
A: This gazpacho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the flavors improve over time, so don’t hesitate to make it a day or two in advance!
Conclusion
This Low Fat Gazpacho with Twang is a true winner for anyone looking for a refreshing, healthy, and easy-to-make summer soup. Not only does it keep things light with minimal fat and calories, but the mix of fresh vegetables, garlic, and vinegar creates a bold and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, light lunch, or even as a side dish at a picnic, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
