Nothing beats the refreshing taste of a chilled soup on a warm day, and Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpeas is a delightful twist on this classic Spanish dish. The combination of fresh vegetables in a tangy base makes for a vibrant and satisfying meal. Topped with crunchy roasted chickpeas, this gazpacho is both light and flavorful, perfect for a summer lunch or a light dinner. Let’s dive into this recipe that will surely become a favorite in your collection.
**Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpeas Recipe**
**Ingredients:**
– 6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
– 1 small red onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and minced garlic. Mix well.
2. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar over the vegetable mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and sugar. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
3. Slowly pour the vegetable broth into the bowl while stirring gently. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. In a separate bowl, toss the drained and rinsed chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
6. Spread the chickpeas in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through for even cooking.
7. Remove the chickpeas from the oven and let them cool slightly.
8. To serve, ladle the chilled gazpacho into bowls. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of crispy chickpeas.
9. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous flavor.
Enjoy this Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpeas for a light and nourishing meal that’s bursting with fresh flavors. It’s a perfect dish to enjoy during those hot summer days or when you want a quick and healthy dinner option. Bon appétit!
This Gazpacho with Crispy Chickpeas recipe is simple to prepare and offers a delightful interplay of textures and flavors. Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite seasonal vegetables or herbs to make it your own. Whether you’re hosting a garden party or looking for a satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and your taste buds alike.
