Appetizers & Starters > Soups & Broths > Chilled Soups > Beetroot Soup
Icy Beetroot Gazpacho: A Spanish-Inspired Delight
This Icy Beetroot Gazpacho is a refreshing twist on the classic Spanish soup. Combining the sweetness of beets with the tang of vinegar and the crunch of vegetables, it's a perfect appetizer or light lunch for a warm day. Enjoy the vibrant color and the cool, invigorating flavors!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Cooked Beets, peeled and chopped
- 1 large Tomato, roughly chopped
- 1/2 medium Cucumber, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 1/2 medium Red Bell Pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1/4 small Red Onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
- 1 clove Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Water or Tomato Juice
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- Optional Garnishes: Chopped parsley, croutons, a drizzle of olive oil
Preparing the Vegetables
Ensure all vegetables are washed and chopped into roughly the same size. This will help with even blending.
Blending the Gazpacho
In a blender, combine the cooked beets, tomato, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and water or tomato juice. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, pulse a few times instead of blending completely smooth.
Seasoning and Chilling
Season the gazpacho with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of vinegar to your preference. Pour the soup into a container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it chills, the more the flavors will develop.
Serving
Before serving, stir the gazpacho. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley, croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
FAQ
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Can I use different colored bell peppers?
While red bell pepper adds a nice sweetness, you can use other colors, but the red contributes to the overall color of the dish. -
Can I add a spicy element to this gazpacho?
Yes, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small piece of jalapeño to the blender for a spicy kick. -
Is it necessary to peel the cucumber?
Yes, it is better to peel the cucumber for a smoother texture of the gazpacho.