Chunky Gazpacho

Spanish Gazpacho Recipe with Fresh Vegetables and Savory Flavors

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chunky Gazpacho is a refreshing and flavorful cold soup that is perfect for hot summer days. This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, making it a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or appetizer.

History

Gazpacho is a traditional Spanish dish that originated in the Andalusian region of Spain. It is typically made with a base of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions, and garlic, and is often served cold. The addition of chunky vegetables in this recipe gives it a unique twist on the classic gazpacho.

Ingredients

4 cups of tomato juice
2 cups of chopped tomatoes, peeled and seeded
1 cup of chopped cucumber
0.5 cup of chopped red onion
0.5 cup of chopped celery
0.5 cup of thawed frozen or fresh corn
0.5 cup of chopped green bell pepper
0.25 cup of chopped scallion
0.25 cup of chopped zucchini
0.25 cup of chopped mild green chiles
0.25 cup of chopped fresh parsley
0.25 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tbsp of red wine vinegar
2 tbsp of fresh lime juice

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine all of the ingredients.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 3 to 4 hours before serving.
Variation: You can also prepare this by pureeing half of the ingredients in a food processor or blender, while leaving the remaining ingredients finely chopped.

Variations

Add avocado chunks for a creamy texture.
Top with crumbled feta cheese for a tangy twist.
Stir in cooked shrimp or crab meat for a protein-packed option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best results.

- Adjust the amount of garlic, vinegar, and lime juice to suit your taste preferences.

- For a spicier version, add more green chiles or a dash of hot sauce.

- Serve the gazpacho chilled for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chunky Gazpacho with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a sharp knife to chop the vegetables into uniform pieces.

- Blend half of the ingredients for a smoother texture, while leaving the rest chunky for added texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use yellow or orange bell peppers instead of green for a sweeter flavor.

- Substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a richer taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Chunky Gazpacho can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chunky Gazpacho in chilled bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chunky Gazpacho with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Chunky Gazpacho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chunky Gazpacho contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chunky Gazpacho contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chunky Gazpacho contains approximately 1 gram of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chunky Gazpacho contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chunky Gazpacho is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

Summary

Chunky Gazpacho is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

Chunky Gazpacho is a delicious and healthy cold soup that is perfect for summer. Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this recipe is a flavorful and satisfying option for a light meal or appetizer. Enjoy the refreshing taste of Chunky Gazpacho on a hot day!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chunky Gazpacho. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her quaint little village in Spain. Maria was known for her delicious homemade recipes, and she had promised to teach me how to make her famous Chunky Gazpacho.

We started by gathering all the fresh ingredients from Maria's garden - ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, vibrant bell peppers, and fragrant onions. As we chopped and diced the vegetables, the colors and aromas mingled together in a beautiful symphony of flavors. Maria explained to me that the key to a good Chunky Gazpacho was using the freshest ingredients possible.

Next, we blended the vegetables together with some tangy vinegar, fruity olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. The mixture turned into a vibrant red soup with chunks of vegetables floating in it. Maria told me that the secret to a good Chunky Gazpacho was to let it sit in the fridge for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

As we waited for the soup to chill, Maria regaled me with stories of how she had learned the recipe for Chunky Gazpacho from her grandmother, who had learned it from her grandmother before her. The recipe had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own twist to it. Maria had added her own touch by using a mix of different colored bell peppers to give the soup a rainbow of flavors.

When the soup was finally ready, we ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of creamy yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The first spoonful was a burst of flavors - sweet and tangy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and the earthy richness of the olive oil. It was like a taste of summer in every bite.

I knew then that I had to learn how to make this recipe for myself. Maria patiently taught me each step, from selecting the ripest vegetables to the perfect balance of seasonings. She even gave me a handwritten copy of the recipe so that I could recreate it at home.

Over the years, I have made Maria's Chunky Gazpacho countless times for friends and family. Each time, I am transported back to that hot summer day in Spain, chopping vegetables with Maria and learning the secrets of this timeless recipe. The flavors of the soup never fail to evoke memories of laughter and good times shared with loved ones.

I am grateful to Maria for sharing her family recipe with me and for passing on the tradition of making Chunky Gazpacho. It is a dish that never fails to impress and delight, bringing a taste of summer to even the coldest winter day. And with each spoonful, I am reminded of the joy of cooking and the power of shared meals to bring people together.