Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho

Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho Recipe - From California, USA

Region / culture: California, USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho is a refreshing and flavorful dish perfect for a hot summer day. The combination of fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and avocado creates a delicious and healthy soup that is sure to impress your guests.

History

Gazpacho is a traditional Spanish cold soup that is typically made with tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions. This recipe puts a unique twist on the classic dish by adding shrimp, white beans, and avocado for a creamy and satisfying texture.

Ingredients

2.75 lb (1.25 kg) tomatoes
1.5 cup diced, peeled, and seeded cucumber (for Kirby and hot house cucumbers, it is not necessary to peel cucumbers.)
1 cup diced red onion
2 small shallots
1.5 cup canned tomato juice
0.33 cup extra virgin olive oil
2.5 tbsp sherry wine vinegar
2 tbsp finely chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce or to taste
1 cup cooked rock shrimp, very coarsely chopped
1.06 cup cooked cannellini beans
1 california avocado, about 8 oz, cut in small dice
0.5 tbsp salt, or to taste
tortilla chips as needed for garnish
Chopped cilantro as needed for garnish

How to prepare

Peel the tomatoes by dipping them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then slip off the skins.
Cut the tomatoes in half horizontally.
Over a bowl lined with a sieve, seed the tomatoes, catching and reserving the juice.
Cut each tomato half into two pieces.
In a food processor, puree the tomato, cucumber, red onion, and shallot, in batches if necessary.
Stir in the reserved fresh tomato juice, canned juice, olive oil, vinegar, and chipotle peppers.
Stir in the shrimp, beans, avocado, and salt.
Chill the mixture for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to blend.
Serve the dish cool, but not icy.

Variations

Substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos for extra heat and flavor.
Top with crumbled feta cheese or avocado slices for added richness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and seed the tomatoes before pureeing them to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Chill the gazpacho for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Garnish with tortilla chips and chopped cilantro for added crunch and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this gazpacho as a light and refreshing appetizer or main course. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Puree the vegetables in a food processor for a smooth and creamy texture.

- Chill the gazpacho in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cherry tomatoes or heirloom tomatoes in place of regular tomatoes.

- Substitute black beans or chickpeas for the white beans.

- Use red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar in place of white vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

This gazpacho can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to stir well before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the gazpacho in chilled bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, and a few cilantro leaves for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this gazpacho with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a refreshing and balanced meal. Serve with a side of crusty bread or grilled shrimp for added protein.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover gazpacho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Do not freeze as the texture may become watery.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 23g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 7g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 25%

- Vitamin C: 45%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Shellfish (shrimp)

Summary

This Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho is a nutrient-rich dish that is high in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and protein. It is a healthy and satisfying meal option for those looking to eat clean and stay energized.

Summary

This Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich shrimp, and creamy avocado, this gazpacho is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through a quaint little bookstore in a small coastal town in California. As I was flipping through the pages of a cookbook, a recipe caught my eye - a refreshing and unique twist on the classic gazpacho soup.

The combination of ripe avocados, succulent shrimp, and creamy white beans intrigued me. The recipe called for a blend of smoky paprika, tangy lime juice, and fragrant cilantro to create a flavorful and vibrant gazpacho. I knew I had to try it out.

I immediately purchased the cookbook and rushed home to gather the ingredients. I set to work in my cozy kitchen, chopping, blending, and mixing with care. The aroma of the smoky paprika filled the air as I sautéed the shrimp to perfection.

As I tasted the gazpacho for the first time, I was blown away by the burst of flavors. The creamy avocado complemented the plump shrimp and hearty white beans perfectly. The tangy lime juice added a refreshing kick, while the cilantro added a touch of freshness.

I shared the gazpacho with my family and friends, who were equally impressed by the unique combination of ingredients. They couldn't believe how simple yet delicious the recipe was. From that day on, it became a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my taste. I have added extra avocado for creaminess, swapped out the shrimp for grilled chicken, and even experimented with different herbs and spices.

One summer, I hosted a backyard barbecue for my friends and decided to serve the gazpacho as an appetizer. I watched with satisfaction as they savored each spoonful, their faces lighting up with delight. They couldn't believe how a simple soup could be so flavorful and satisfying.

As the years went by, I continued to share the recipe with anyone who would listen. It became a favorite among my grandchildren, who would always request it whenever they came to visit. They loved helping me in the kitchen, chopping the vegetables and blending the ingredients together.

I fondly remember the time my eldest grandchild, Sarah, asked me to teach her how to make the gazpacho. As we stood side by side in the kitchen, I guided her through each step, explaining the importance of balancing flavors and textures. She listened intently, her eyes wide with curiosity.

As we sat down to enjoy the gazpacho together, Sarah beamed with pride. She had successfully recreated the recipe, adding her own twist by garnishing the soup with a sprinkle of smoked paprika. I knew then that my love for cooking had been passed down to the next generation.

Now, as I look back on the countless memories and moments shared over a bowl of Smokey California Avocado, Shrimp, and White Bean Gazpacho, I am filled with gratitude. This recipe has brought joy, laughter, and connection to my family and friends, uniting us over a shared love for delicious food.

I am humbled by the power of a simple recipe to create lasting memories and bring people together. And as I continue to cook and share my passion for food, I know that this gazpacho will always hold a special place in my heart.