Description
🍉 Enjoy a refreshing and vibrant twist on gazpacho with this Spicy Watermelon Gazpacho, blending sweet watermelon with fresh jalapeño heat.
🌶️ This healthy, vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free soup is perfect for a cool summer appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
– 6 cups cubed seedless watermelon Provides the base with natural sweetness and hydration, adding a refreshing twist to the gazpacho
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped Brings crunch and extra water content, enhancing the cool factor in spicy watermelon gazpacho
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced Adds vibrant color and vitamin C, balancing sweetness with a subtle crunch
– 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced Infuses heat and flavor, with capsaicin for metabolism boost, giving that signature spicy edge
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes) Offers acidity and brightness, aiding digestion while enhancing the overall taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced Delivers robust flavor and antioxidants, elevating the depth without overpowering the fruitiness
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Imparts herby freshness and vitamins, tying all the elements together in the gazpacho
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped Provides a sharp bite and prebiotics for gut health, adding complexity to the mix
– 2 tablespoons olive oil Adds creaminess and healthy fats, helping to emulsify the ingredients for a smooth texture
– 1 teaspoon salt Seasons properly, bringing out flavors of the watermelon and spices in spicy watermelon gazpacho
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a mild kick and depth, complementing the jalapeno’s heat
Instructions
First Step: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by assembling all ingredients and dedicating 5 minutes to prep cube 6 cups of seedless watermelon, peel and chop 1 cucumber, seed and dice 1 red bell pepper, and mince 1 jalapeno and 2 cloves garlic. Set out tools like a blender and bowls; for vegan tweaks, ensure all items are plant-based, and if making low-calorie spicy watermelon gazpacho, measure portions to keep it light, setting the stage for a smooth process.
Second Step: Combine the Base Ingredients: In a large blender, add the cubed watermelon, chopped cucumber, diced red bell pepper, minced jalapeno, and minced garlic, pulsing for 1 to 2 minutes until partially blended this creates the foundation. For dietary adaptations, stick to the original for gluten-free options or reduce jalapeno for milder tastes; this step ensures the ingredients meld into a vibrant base for your spicy watermelon gazpacho.
Third Step: Add Flavor Enhancers: Pour in 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, then blend on high for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth. If adjusting for low-calorie needs, use less oil here; this blends the flavors perfectly, enhancing the signature spice in spicy watermelon gazpacho.
Fourth Step: Chill and Adjust: Transfer the blended mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for 30 to 45 minutes to let flavors develop taste and adjust seasoning like salt or lime if needed, taking about 1 minute. For vegan preferences, this step remains the same, allowing the spicy watermelon gazpacho to chill and intensify, so it’s ready to serve at its best.
Fifth Step: Blend Variations If Desired: If customizing, return a portion to the blender for add-ins like extra herbs, blending for another 1 to 2 minutes; this keeps the process flexible for different palates while maintaining the core watermelon gazpacho essence.
Final Step: Finishing Touches and Serving: Before serving, stir the chilled soup and ladle into bowls, garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced watermelon, or a lime wedge for extra zing this takes 2 to 3 minutes and serves 4 to 6. Adapt by reducing portions for low-calorie diets or adding vegan yogurt for creaminess, presenting spicy watermelon gazpacho as a refreshing, customizable dish that pairs well with salads or entrees.
Notes
🌶️ Control the spice by adjusting or removing jalapeño seeds or substituting with milder peppers.
⏳ Prepare ahead and chill for at least 1 hour to enhance flavors.
🥒 Use a food processor for ease; no need to strain the mixture for texture variation.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1-12 hours
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Soup, Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Keywords: spicy, watermelon, gazpacho, jalapeño