On a warm day, nothing beats the refreshing taste of a chilled soup, and this vegan green gazpacho is the perfect choice. Packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients, it’s both healthy and delicious. This recipe brings together crisp cucumbers, creamy avocados, and zesty lime for a burst of flavor in every spoonful. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will keep you cool and nourished.
Steps
- Begin by removing the ends of the cucumbers, slicing them lengthwise, and scooping out the seeds with a spoon. Cut the cucumbers into chunks and do the same with the bell pepper, removing its seeds as well.
- Dice the onion and place the cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and peeled garlic clove into a food processor. Process these vegetables until they are finely minced.
- Separate the leaves from about a quarter of the parsley and cilantro bunches. Add these leaves to the food processor along with the olive oil and the flesh from the avocado, then blend until the mixture is smooth.
- Pour in a cup of water, a tablespoon of lemon juice, and a teaspoon of salt, and continue to purée until the soup achieves a smooth, cohesive texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional lemon juice or salt if necessary.
- Serve the gazpacho immediately or allow it to chill in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it. Pair it with your preferred grilled dishes and a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredients
- 2 medium cucumbers
- 1 medium white onion
- 1 medium green bell pepper
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 medium avocado
- 1/4 bunch fresh parsley
- 1/4 bunch fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup water
Nutritional Values
Calories: 214.35 kcal | Carbohydrates: 13.5 g | Protein: 2.95 g | Fat: 18.18 g | Sodium: 603.95 mg | Fiber: 7.08 g | Total Sugars: N/A | Saturated Fat: N/A | Trans Fat: N/A | Cholesterol: N/A
FAQ
- What is green gazpacho, and how does it differ from traditional gazpacho?
- Green gazpacho is a cold soup made primarily with green vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and avocado, along with fresh herbs. Unlike the traditional red gazpacho, which typically uses tomatoes, green gazpacho has a lighter and fresher flavor profile.
- Can green gazpacho be made vegan and gluten-free?
- Yes, this green gazpacho recipe is both vegan and gluten-free. It uses avocado instead of bread to add body to the soup, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- What are some serving suggestions for green gazpacho?
- Green gazpacho can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside grilled meats or vegetables. Adding a slice of crusty bread, like sourdough or focaccia, for dipping can enhance the meal experience.
- How can I adjust the flavor of green gazpacho to my liking?
- You can adjust the flavor by adding more lemon juice or salt based on your taste preferences. The taste can vary depending on the size and flavor of the vegetables used, so feel free to tweak each batch until it’s perfect for you.
- Is it necessary to remove cucumber seeds when making green gazpacho?
- Yes, it’s recommended to remove the cucumber seeds before blending, as they do not blend well and can affect the texture of the soup.
Tips
- Remove the seeds from the cucumber before blending to ensure a smoother texture in your gazpacho, as the seeds might not blend well and could affect the soup’s consistency.
- Use avocado to add a creamy texture and body to your soup. Without it, the gazpacho may be too fibrous and less cohesive.
- Adjust the salt and lemon juice based on the size and flavor of your vegetables, as these can vary. Taste the soup and tweak the seasoning to enhance the overall flavor.
- Serve the chilled gazpacho with a side of crusty bread like sourdough or focaccia for dipping, to complement the fresh, light flavors of the soup.
Equipment
- Food Processor – Essential for puréeing the vegetables and herbs into a smooth soup.
- Citrus Juicer – Helpful for extracting lemon juice.
- Measuring Spoons – Useful for measuring out ingredients like olive oil, salt, and lemon juice.
