Chilled Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpea Croutons

Gazpacho is a classic Spanish dish that’s known for its refreshing and vibrant flavors. It’s traditionally made with crusty bread, but in this recipe, we’re giving it a healthier, gluten-free twist by using crispy chickpea “croutons” instead. This Chilled Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpea “Croutons” is a delightful dish that’s perfect for warm-weather dining.

The Allure of Chilled Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpea Croutons

This gazpacho is a beautiful blend of fresh vegetables and herbs, all pureed to create a chilled soup that’s bursting with flavor. Thanks to the cumin and smoked paprika, the chickpea “croutons” add a satisfying crunch and a hint of smokiness. And the diced avocado adds a creamy touch that perfectly balances the tanginess of the soup.

Ingredients

To make this delightful dish, you’ll need canned chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, a red onion, a red bell pepper, a cucumber, tomatoes, garlic cloves, water, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, fresh basil, fresh parsley, an avocado, and salt and black pepper to taste.

CHICKPEA “CROUTON” INGREDIENTS

• 1 15.5 oz can chickpeas drained and rinsed
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil divided
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• sea salt and black pepper to taste

GAZPACHO INGREDIENTS

• 1 medium red onion, roughly chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper roughly chopped
• 1 large cucumber peeled and roughly chopped
• 5 large tomatoes roughly chopped
• 3 fresh garlic cloves
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice divided
• 1/4 cup fresh basil roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley chopped
• sea salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 medium avocado
• sprigs of fresh basil or parsley for garnish

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The Process

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing a baking sheet. Toss the chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, and smoked paprika, then spread them out on the baking sheet and roast until golden brown and crispy.

Meanwhile, finely dice a quarter of the red onion, bell pepper, and cucumber. Set them aside for later.

Place the remaining vegetables in a food processor or blender, along with the garlic, water, vinegar, lemon juice, and herbs. Pulse until mostly smooth, then transfer to a bowl and chill in the refrigerator.

Once the chickpeas are crispy, let them cool. They’ll become even crispier as they cool down.

Before serving, dice the avocado and toss it with lemon juice to prevent browning. Adjust the seasonings of the gazpacho if needed, then serve it in bowls, topped with the diced vegetables, crispy chickpeas, and diced avocado.

The Verdict

The Chilled Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpea “Croutons” is a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for summer dining. It’s packed with fresh flavors and interesting textures, making each spoonful a delight. And with its healthy, gluten-free ingredients, it’s a dish you can feel good about enjoying. So why not add a Spanish touch to your meal with this delightful gazpacho? Enjoy!