Delicious Spinach Gazpacho Soup

This refreshing spinach gazpacho soup offers a unique twist to the traditional Spanish dish. It's perfect for hot summer days as a cooling starter or light main course. This soup is a medley of fresh vegetables combined with the richness of olive oil, resulting in a flavorful, healthy dish. The vibrant colors of the tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers make it visually appealing. Easy to prepare, it's packed full of vitamins and nutrients while being naturally low in calories. Ideal for vegetarians and vegans, it's a wonderful way to enjoy raw vegetables in a delicious form. The addition of spinach adds a twist of green goodness, boosting the nutritional value. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat at lunch or dinner. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

4 tomatoes
3 cucumbers
1 red bell pepper
1 green bell pepper
1 onion
A few cloves of garlic
Spinach (optional)

Spices/Sauces:

Olive oil
Vinegar
Salt
Fresh basil for garnish

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. This helps to remove any dirt or pesticides.
Dice the tomatoes into small, even pieces so they blend easily later on. Set them aside in a large bowl.
Peel the cucumbers and chop them into small cubes. Add them to the bowl with the tomatoes.
Remove the seeds and core from the red and green bell peppers. Dice them finely and add to the bowl.
Chop the onion into small pieces and add it to the mix. Remember, the finer you chop the veggies, the smoother the soup will be.
Peel and mince the garlic cloves. Adjust the quantity of garlic to your taste preference.
If using spinach, rinse it well and chop coarsely. Add it to the bowl with the other vegetables.
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the vegetables. This adds a silky texture to the soup.
Add a splash of vinegar to the mixture. Adjust the amount based on how tangy you want the soup to be.
Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the ingredients. Season to taste, but remember you can always add more later.
Use a hand mixer or blender to blend the mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. Some prefer it smooth, while others like a chunkier texture.
Transfer the blended mixture to a clean bowl and check the seasoning. Add more salt, vinegar, or olive oil if needed.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least an hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Just before serving, give the soup a quick stir to combine any settled ingredients.
Pour the soup into serving bowls.
Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped basil leaves for a burst of color and aroma.

Tips

For added flavor, include a splash of lemon juice.
Substitute spinach with kale if preferred.
To thicken the soup, add a slice of stale bread while blending.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per serving
Protein: 3g
Fats: 10g
Carbohydrates: 12g

Variations

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes.
Use herbal vinegar instead of regular vinegar for a different taste.
Blend with ice cubes for an extra-cold summer treat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with rustic bread or croutons for added crunch.
Serve alongside a fresh garden salad.
Complement with chilled white wine or sparkling water.

Best Places

El Pimpi - Known for its authentic Andalusian cuisine. Location: Calle Granada, 62, Málaga, Spain.
Casa Botín - Offers traditional Spanish dishes in a historic setting. Location: Calle de Cuchilleros, 17, Madrid, Spain.
Cal Pep - Famous for its Catalan specialties. Location: Plaça de les Olles, 8, Barcelona, Spain.
Bodega La Palma - A cozy spot for tapas and gazpacho. Location: Calle de la Palma, 6, Barcelona, Spain.
Cervecería Catalana - Popular for its lively atmosphere and varied menu. Location: Carrer de Mallorca, 236, Barcelona, Spain.
Bar Tomate - Known for its fresh ingredients and vibrant dishes. Location: Calle de Fernando VI, 23, Madrid, Spain.
La Buganvilia - Intimate place offering classic Spanish fare. Location: Calle Guzmán el Bueno, 102, Madrid, Spain.
La Bodega 1900 - Offers a taste of traditional Spain. Location: Carrer de Tamarit, 91, Barcelona, Spain.
Arzábal - Renowned for its contemporary take on Spanish classics. Location: Calle de Menéndez Pelayo, 13, Madrid, Spain.
Quimet & Quimet - A small eatery famous for its tapas and canned foods. Location: Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes, 25, Barcelona, Spain.