Molded Gazpacho(Lo-Cal; 5 Cups)
A refreshing, low-calorie molded gazpacho featuring fresh vegetables and tangy tomato flavor, perfect for hot days or elegant appetizers, suitable for health-conscious or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1 cup of tomato juice with unflavored gelatin and heat until dissolved.
- Add the rest of the tomato juice, wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and cayenne; stir well and chill until it begins to set.
- Combine the gelled mixture with chopped tomatoes, green onions, green pepper, cucumber, celery, and parsley.
- Pour the mixture into a ring mold and chill until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the tomatoes and vegetables before mixing with the gelled base. You can substitute white wine vinegar for a milder flavor or use lemon juice for added brightness. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce. For a vegan version, ensure the gelatin is plant-based or use agar-agar instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the molded gazpacho chilled, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or as a starter alongside Mediterranean recipes. For added texture, consider serving it with a side of Tabooley - Arabic(Wheat Garden Salad) for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover molded gazpacho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing. This dish does not freeze well due to its high water content.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molded Gazpacho(Lo-Cal; 5 Cups) contains roughly 32 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1218mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned tomato juice?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes can enhance the flavor. Blend about 4 cups of ripe tomatoes until smooth, and strain if you prefer a smoother consistency. Adjust seasoning accordingly as fresh tomatoes can vary in sweetness.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños to the vegetable mix. For an even deeper flavor, consider incorporating a few dashes of hot sauce into the gelatin mixture before chilling.
Is there a way to make this dish more filling?
To make the gazpacho more substantial, consider incorporating diced avocado or chickpeas into the vegetable mixture. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide a creamy texture and added protein.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).