Gazpacho

Serves #
Serves 4; Net carbohydrates: 8g. per serving

Notes from the Chef

This is a wonderful hot weather soup. No stove and no oven. It originated in Andalusia, Spain more than a hundred years ago. It is a waste/not want not style of soup. This recipe replaces the high carbohydrates of bread with chunky vegetables. The easiest way to make this and keep it chunky is to chop each of the vegetables separately and add them to the tomato base at the end. I also recommend holding back a little of the chopped vegetables for garnish.

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, peeled and seeds removed (English/ hot house cucumbers work very well)
• ½ medium (4-6 ounce) red or sweet onion
• ¾ cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• 3 cups diced canned tomatoes (San Marzano if you can get them)
• 2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
• 4 Tbsp. good olive oil
• 1-3 cloves garlic grated
• Salt and pepper to taste (AND your doctor’s recommendation)
• 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley
• 2 Tbsp. fresh basil (or 1 Tbsp. dried basil)

Preparation

1. Cut the peeled and seeded cucumbers into chunks and chop it into very small pieces. If using a blender or processor, don’t allow them to liquefy. Set aside in a small bowl.
2. Cut the onion into small dice and chop into very small pieces. Set aside in a small bowl.
3. Chop or process the bell pepper the same way as you did the cucumbers. Set aside in a small bowl.
4. In a blender or food processor, barely liquefy the tomatoes. Add the vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs and blend together.
5. Add ¾ of the chopped vegetables and stir to combine. Remember to reserve the remaining chopped vegetables for garnish and extra crunch.
6. Chill the soup for 2-3 hours or up to 2 days. Serve icy cold with a dollop of sour cream to smooth out the acid of the tomato. In the winter (perhaps for a brunch), heat to just below the boiling point and add a splash of vodka.

Source: Ward Alper, the Decadent Diabetic

Not every recipe on our site is appropriate for every person with diabetes. Please follow the recommendations of your doctor, dietitian or nutritionist.