Gazpacho is a cold tomato soup originating in Spain and now popular in many countries, including the U.S. Its main ingredients include tomatoes, cucumbers,  onions and garlic. It is a refreshing and nutritious soup. I LOVE gazpacho as part of a meal or snack.

One of the key ingredients in gazpacho is tomatoes. 

Tomatoes are high in the antioxidants vitamin C and lycopene which have been shown to be protective against chronic disease. Antioxidants help to “clean up” free radicals from the body protecting against diseases like heart disease and high blood pressure.

This recipe calls for additional vegetables making it a nutritious powerhouse: red bell peppers, celery, cucumbers, and onions.

Here are the dEATS:

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber (cut into 1/4 inch pieces)
• 2 red bell peppers (seeded and cut into 1/4 inch pieces)
• 1 celery stalks (cut into 1/4 inch pieces)
• 3 tomatoes (cut into 1/4 inch pieces)
• 1 medium onion (cut into 1/4 inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
• 2 lemons
• 2 cups tomato juice or V8, low-sodium
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 1 cup chopped cilantro
• salt and pepper (to taste, optional)

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl except for the cilantro and lemons.

2. Using a blender or food processor, puree the mixture.

3. Season with salt, pepper (optional) and the juice from the lemons.

4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate  it for at least 2 hours prior to serving.

5. Serve cold, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Makes approximately 4 servings.

 

Enjoy!

Have a healthy week!

Warmly,

Lisa

Lisa R. Young, PhD, RDN