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Creamy Gazpacho Andaluz – A Chilled Spanish Classic with a Velvety Twist
When the sun is blazing and appetites call for something light yet flavorful, Creamy Gazpacho Andaluz is the answer. This Spanish classic, traditionally made with raw vegetables, bread, olive oil, and sherry vinegar, gets a luscious twist with a touch of creaminess. The result is a chilled soup that’s both refreshing and indulgent, making it perfect for summer meals, elegant appetizers, or healthy make-ahead lunches.
Unlike heavy soups, gazpacho is served cold and brims with vitamins, minerals, and natural antioxidants from fresh vegetables. Adding a creamy element elevates its texture, balancing freshness with richness in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Serves 4–6
- 6 ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 slices of day-old bread, crusts removed (soaked in water)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (60ml) plain Greek yogurt or light cream (for creaminess)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Chill time: 1–2 hours
- Total time: About 2 hours 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
- Wash and chop tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
- Place them in a large blender or food processor.
Step 2: Add Bread and Seasonings
- Squeeze excess water from soaked bread and add it to the blender.
- Season with salt, pepper, olive oil, and sherry vinegar.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
- Blend on high speed until mixture is smooth and velvety.
- Add Greek yogurt or cream for extra richness and blend again.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Transfer soup to a bowl or pitcher, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1–2 hours.
- Serve cold, garnished with chopped cucumber, herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled bread or crostini for a rustic touch.
- Serve in small glasses as a refreshing appetizer at dinner parties.
- Top with diced avocado or crumbled feta for extra texture and flavor.
- Accompany with a chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Protein | 4 grams |
| Total Fat | 11 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 2 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 14 grams |
| Sugars | 6 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 220 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Tomatoes and peppers provide vitamin C and antioxidants like lycopene.
- Olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Greek yogurt or cream adds creaminess along with protein and calcium.
- Naturally low in calories, making it a great light meal or appetizer.
Tips for Best Results
- Use the ripest tomatoes for maximum sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Chill thoroughly before serving to let flavors meld.
- For an extra-smooth texture, strain the soup after blending.
- Adjust creaminess by varying the amount of yogurt or cream.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Gazpacho: Add a fresh chili or dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Green Gazpacho: Replace red tomatoes with green ones and add fresh herbs like cilantro.
- Vegan Version: Skip the yogurt and blend in soaked cashews for creaminess.
- Fruit Twist: Add watermelon or strawberries for a sweet-savory version.
This Creamy Gazpacho Andaluz is the perfect balance of freshness and indulgence. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors and loaded with nutrients, it’s a chilled dish that works beautifully for warm weather dining or as a show-stopping appetizer.
Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for a refreshing taste of Spain in your own kitchen.