Vegan Option:
CHILLED CUCUMBER GAZPACHO
A cool, soothing soup made from blended cucumbers, green grapes, and mint, topped with almond crumble for a touch of texture.
Chilled Cucumber Gazpacho Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes + chilling time
Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 large cucumbers, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 cup green grapes, washed
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/4 cup blanched almonds, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Almond Crumble:
- 1/4 cup blanched almonds, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup water (optional, for desired consistency)
Instructions:
1. Blend the Soup
> In a blender, combine the cucumbers, green grapes, garlic, mint leaves, apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1/4 cup almonds. Blend until completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add water a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
2. Chill:
> Transfer the soup to a container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled.
3. Prepare Almond Crumble
> Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss the chopped almonds with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt.
> Spread them out on a baking sheet and bake for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
> Let them cool.
4. Chill & Serve
> Pour the chilled gazpacho into bowls. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of the toasted almond crumble, a drizzle of olive oil, and fresh mint leaves for garnish.