I am thrilled to share one of my favorite summertime treats with you: Cucumber Avocado Gazpacho! When the weather gets warm, and you feel the heat rising, nothing beats a refreshing, cool dish that’s light yet satisfying. I first stumbled upon a gazpacho recipe during a family barbecue, and it left such a lasting impression that I’ve made it part of my cooking repertoire ever since. I love how it brings together creamy avocado and crisp cucumber, resulting in a bowl of deliciousness that’s perfect for sipping or slurping straight out of a cup.
This vibrant dish isn’t just easy on the eyes—it’s also incredibly simple to whip up! It’s as if summer has been blended into a bowl; each spoonful brings the freshness of cucumbers with a buttery note from the avocado. I often find myself making it for gatherings, and it never fails to impress my guests. It’s a unique take on the traditional gazpacho, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked just like I was.
What’s in Cucumber Avocado Gazpacho?
Cucumbers: The star of the show! Cucumbers are hydrating and lush, providing the base for this dish. I prefer using English cucumbers as they are less bitter and have fewer seeds.
Avocado: This creamy fruit adds richness to the gazpacho and helps to thicken it up. Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor—trust me, a perfect avocado is worth searching for!
Tomatoes: Although cucumber is the focal point, tomatoes bring that essential gazpacho taste. I love using vine-ripened or heirloom tomatoes when they’re in season. They add a splash of color and a burst of sweetness.
Red Onion: Just a touch of red onion provides a hint of tang and sweetness. I recommend chopping it finely to ensure that it evenly distributes its flavor without overwhelming the gazpacho.
Garlic: A few cloves of garlic give the gazpacho depth and robustness. Fresh garlic is best here.
Lemon Juice: The citrus notes brighten the flavors beautifully! Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a must—it’s a game changer.
Olive Oil: This adds a luxurious texture and a hint of fruitiness. I suggest using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil for best results.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley can elevate this dish even further, adding a fresh layer of flavor. Go wild with your favorites!
Is Cucumber Avocado Gazpacho Good for You?
Absolutely! This gazpacho is packed with healthy ingredients.
Cucumbers: Super hydrating and low in calories, cucumbers are a great choice for anyone looking to stay refreshed in the summer heat.
Avocado: The healthy fats in avocado contribute to heart health and keep you feeling full—plus, they’re absolutely delicious!
Tomatoes: Full of antioxidants, including lycopene, tomatoes might help protect against heart disease.
Garlic: Known for its immunity-boosting properties, garlic can be a great ally in keeping illness at bay.
The only consideration is portion control with the avocado since it can be calorie-dense. But I say, enjoy it! This dish is naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups chopped cucumber
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 cup chopped tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened)
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like basil or cilantro, optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Serves: 4
How to Make Cucumber Avocado Gazpacho?
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped cucumber, avocado, tomatoes, red onion, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Blend until smooth. If you like it a bit chunkier, pulse the blender until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper. Adjust according to your preferences.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!
5. Serve cold in bowls or cups, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Chill Out with Extra Tips!
– Want to jazz it up? Try adding diced jalapeños for a little kick!
– I sometimes toss in a bit of Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess if I’m feeling indulgent.
– This gazpacho also makes for an excellent base for salads—just thin it out with some more lemon juice and use it as a dressing.
I hope you get a chance to whip up this lovely Cucumber Avocado Gazpacho! There’s something so beautifully satisfying about enjoying a cool, healthy dish during those sizzling summer days. After you try it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you—feel free to share your experiences in the comments! Happy cooking!
