Escape to the taste of summer with this refreshing Chicory Gazpacho. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, it’s a perfect dish to enjoy any time of the year. Chicory takes the place of traditional greens in this recipe, making it a unique twist on the classic gazpacho. Whether you serve it on a warm summer day or as a reminder of sunshine during the colder months, this chilled soup is sure to please.
SERVES 4
PREP 15 MIN PLUS CHILLING
COOK NONE
FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 large orange
- 2 heads white chicory
- 2 slices bread, crusts removed
- 1 garlic clove, coarsely chopped
- 4 scallions, trimmed and coarsely chopped
- 1 large beefsteak tomato, peeled, quartered, and seeded
- 2 cups (450ml) cold vegetable stock
- 2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tbsp white balsamic vinegar
- 4 large basil leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare Orange Zest: Thinly pare the zest from half of the orange. Cut the zest into thin strips, then briefly boil them in water for 1 minute. Drain, rinse with cold water, and drain again. Set the blanched zest aside for garnish. Grate the zest from the remaining orange and squeeze its juice into a bowl; set aside.
- Prep Chicory: Cut a cone shape out of the base of each head of chicory and discard. Separate the heads into spears. Reserve four of the smallest spears for garnish. Coarsely chop the rest.
- Soak Bread: Soak the bread slices in water for 2 minutes. Squeeze out some of the moisture, then place the bread in a blender or food processor.
- Blend Soup: Add the chopped chicory, garlic, scallions, tomato, cold vegetable stock, olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, basil leaves, and the orange juice and finely grated zest to the blender or food processor. Puree the mixture until it becomes smooth and well combined. Season the soup to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Chill: Refrigerate the gazpacho until it’s thoroughly chilled and ready to serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the chilled Chicory Gazpacho into four bowls. Drizzle each serving with a little olive oil. Garnish with a tiny chicory spear and a few strands of blanched orange zest.
Savor the flavors of sunshine year-round with this Chicory Gazpacho. Whether you’re cooling off on a warm summer day or bringing a burst of freshness to a chilly evening, this chilled soup never fails to delight. The combination of crisp chicory, zesty orange, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious symphony of taste and texture. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and garnish with delicate chicory spears and blanched orange zest for an exquisite presentation.
Allow this gazpacho to transport you to a world of culinary bliss, where every spoonful is a celebration of freshness and flavor. Enjoy it with friends and family, or savor it as a peaceful indulgence all to yourself. No matter the season, Chicory Gazpacho is a true taste of the extraordinary.
Whether you’re reminiscing about summer or seeking a refreshing starter for your meal, this Chicory Gazpacho is a delightful choice. Its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Enjoy it cold, and savor the taste of sunshine in a bowl.
