Gazpacho Salad I

Gazpacho Salad I Recipe: A Refreshing Spanish Delight

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Gazpacho Salad I is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a hot summer day. This salad is a twist on the traditional gazpacho soup, with all the same delicious flavors in a convenient salad form.

History

Gazpacho is a traditional Spanish cold soup that is typically made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and garlic. This salad takes all of those classic ingredients and turns them into a delicious and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

3 cups of chopped plum tomatoes
1 cucumber, seeded, peeled, and diced
0.25 cup of chopped onion
0.33 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced (optional)
0.25 cup of olive oil
0.25 cup of red wine vinegar
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Combine all the ingredients and mix them well.
Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about an hour to allow the flavors to blend.

Variations

Add diced avocado or grilled shrimp for a heartier version of this salad.
Swap out the cilantro for fresh parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to seed and peel the cucumber before dicing it to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- For a spicier salad, leave the seeds in the jalapeno pepper. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds before dicing.

- Adjust the amount of olive oil and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Gazpacho Salad I as a light and refreshing side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

- Enjoy it on its own as a light lunch or dinner option.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to chop all the ingredients into small, bite-sized pieces for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red bell pepper instead of jalapeno for a milder version of this salad.

- Substitute white wine vinegar for the red wine vinegar if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this Gazpacho Salad I in individual bowls or on a platter garnished with extra cilantro leaves.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salad with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- 180 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 10g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 4% DV

- Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens.

Summary

This Gazpacho Salad I is a healthy and nutritious dish that is low in calories and packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Gazpacho Salad I is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy it on its own or as a side dish with your favorite protein for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Gazpacho Salad many years ago. It was during a trip to Spain with my husband, where we had the pleasure of sampling the most delectable dishes that I had ever tasted. The fresh and vibrant flavors of Spanish cuisine captivated me, and I knew that I had to bring some of that magic back home with me.

One day, while exploring the bustling markets of Madrid, I came across a tiny little stall that was selling all kinds of fresh produce. The colors and smells were intoxicating, and I couldn't resist stopping to take a closer look. As I browsed through the offerings, a friendly old woman approached me and struck up a conversation. She noticed my curiosity and passion for cooking, and she offered to share with me her secret recipe for Gazpacho Salad.

I was overjoyed at the prospect of learning a traditional Spanish dish from a local, and I eagerly accepted her offer. The old woman led me to her humble kitchen, where she began to gather the ingredients for the salad. Tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and a few other simple ingredients were all that was needed to create this refreshing and flavorful dish.

As the old woman chopped and diced the vegetables with skill and precision, she shared with me the stories of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. She spoke of the importance of using only the freshest and highest quality ingredients, and of the love and care that went into every step of the preparation process.

I watched in awe as she effortlessly mixed together the vegetables, seasonings, and liquids to create a beautiful and colorful salad that was as pleasing to the eyes as it was to the taste buds. The aroma that filled the air was simply intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to dig in and experience the flavors for myself.

Finally, the Gazpacho Salad was ready, and the old woman presented me with a bowl filled to the brim with the vibrant and refreshing dish. I took a hesitant bite, unsure of what to expect, but as soon as the flavors hit my tongue, I was transported to a world of culinary bliss. The combination of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tangy bell peppers, and the perfect balance of seasonings was nothing short of perfection.

I savored each and every bite, relishing in the taste of Spain that I had brought back with me from my travels. The old woman watched with a smile as I enjoyed her creation, knowing that she had passed on a piece of her culture and heritage to me through this simple yet delicious recipe.

From that day on, Gazpacho Salad became a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would proudly serve to family and friends on special occasions. Each time I made it, I would think back to that fateful day in Madrid when I stumbled upon the recipe that would forever hold a special place in my heart.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the memories of that trip to Spain and the wonderful people I met along the way, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me into the cook and storyteller that I am today. And as I continue to share my passion for cooking with those around me, I know that the legacy of Gazpacho Salad will live on for generations to come, just as it has in my own family.

So, the next time you find yourself in need of a fresh and flavorful dish to brighten up your day, why not give Gazpacho Salad a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon your own culinary adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.