Cooling Cucumber Avocado Gazpacho

Cooling Cucumber Avocado Gazpacho

A perfect way to cool down on a hot summer day. This soup is quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for those days you don’t want to spend a ton of time in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large cucumbers, peeled and chopped

  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (for a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt)

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro

  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley

  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)

  • 1/2 cup coconut water

  • 1 teaspoon spirulina powder (optional)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

  • 1 tablespoon flaxseed oil or extra virgin olive oil

Garnish:

  • Thin cucumber slices

  • Avocado slices

  • Fresh cilantro leaves

  • A sprinkle of chia seeds

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables:

    • Peel and chop the cucumbers and avocado.

    • Grate the fresh ginger and mince the garlic.

Blend the Ingredients:

    • In a blender or food processor, combine the cucumbers, avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, parsley, ginger, garlic, lemon juice, coconut water, and spirulina powder (if using).

    • Blend until smooth. If the soup is too thick, add more coconut water until you reach your desired consistency.

Season the Soup:

    • Taste the soup and season with salt, pepper, and turmeric powder. Blend again to mix the seasonings thoroughly.

Chill the Soup:

    • Transfer the soup to a large bowl or airtight container.

    • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld and to cool the soup completely.

Serve:

    • Once chilled, give the soup a good stir and pour it into bowls.

    • Garnish with thin cucumber and avocado slices, fresh cilantro leaves, and a sprinkle of chia seeds.

Enjoy:

    • Serve immediately and enjoy this detoxifying cold soup as a refreshing, health-boosting meal or starter.

Tips:

  • For additional detox benefits, you can add a small handful of fresh spinach or kale to the blend.

  • This soup can be made a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.

  • If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve before chilling.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 190

  • Protein: 5g

  • Carbohydrates: 14g

  • Fat: 14g

  • Fiber: 6g

  • Sugar: 5g

Ayurvedic and Detoxifying Properties:

  • Cucumber: Cooling, hydrating, and light. Cucumber is excellent for detoxifying the body due to its high water content and ability to flush out toxins.

  • Avocado: Nourishing and grounding, rich in healthy fats and antioxidants that support liver function and overall detoxification.

  • Greek Yogurt: Probiotic, aids in digestion and supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is crucial for detoxification.

  • Cilantro and Parsley: Both herbs are known for their heavy metal detoxifying properties and are rich in antioxidants.

  • Ginger: Warming and stimulating, ginger aids digestion, reduces inflammation, and helps the body to eliminate toxins.

  • Garlic: Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, supports liver detoxification.

  • Lemon Juice: Alkalizing and rich in vitamin C, helps to cleanse the liver and boost the immune system.

  • Coconut Water: Hydrating and rich in electrolytes, supports the body's natural detox processes.

  • Spirulina: Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, supports detoxification and enhances energy levels.

  • Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supports liver health and detoxification.

  • Flaxseed Oil: Provides omega-3 fatty acids, supports overall cellular health and aids in the detoxification process.

By incorporating these ingredients, this soup not only offers a refreshing and delicious way to cool down on hot summer days but also supports detoxification, enhancing your overall health and well-being.

Amy GrayAmy Gray WellnessComment