Late Summer Grilled Vegetable Gazpacho with Maryland Crab Meat and Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A Nutritional Powerhouse
Here’s a delicious way to use up the bounty of late summer vegetables to get in a healthy dose of anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, vitamins, and fiber that follows my “Eat The Rainbow” tactic to keep your gut microbiome happy.
As a functional nutrition coach, I often emphasize the importance of understanding the nutritional value of each ingredient we consume.
This Late Summer Grilled Vegetable Gazpacho is not just a culinary delight but a symphony of health benefits, each note playing a vital role in nourishing our body.
The culinary twist of grilling the vegetables in the soup base imparts a smoky depth to the dish, while the addition of raw vegetables ensures a burst of freshness and retains their nutritional integrity.
Let’s delve deeper into the healthful wonders of this dish:
1. Tomatoes:
Rich in lycopene, tomatoes are nature’s shield against oxidative stress. Regular consumption can aid in skin protection, and cardiovascular health, and even act as a preventive measure against certain cancers.
2. Cucumbers:
A hydrating gem, cucumbers are essential for cellular hydration, aiding in detoxification and promoting radiant skin.
3. Bell Peppers:
These vibrant vegetables are a Vitamin C powerhouse, essential for collagen production, immune function, and absorption of iron from plant-based foods.
4. Fennel:
Beyond its aromatic appeal, fennel aids in digestion reduces bloating, and is a rich source of essential minerals like potassium, which supports optimal heart function.
5. Onions & Shallots:
These are natural prebiotics, feeding our gut’s beneficial bacteria, which in turn support a healthy immune system and reduce inflammation.
6. Garlic:
A potent antimicrobial, garlic supports immune function, aids in detoxification, and promotes cardiovascular health.
7. Extra Virgin Olive Oil:
A cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, its monounsaturated fats support brain health, reduce inflammation, and balance cholesterol levels.
8. Cara Cara Orange:
This citrus fruit is not just a flavor enhancer but a bioflavonoid-rich ingredient that supports vascular health and reduces oxidative stress.
9. Fresh Herbs (Basil & Cilantro):
These herbs detoxify heavy metals from our bodies, support liver function, and have mood-enhancing properties.
10. Maryland Crab Meat:
An excellent lean protein source, crab meat supports muscle growth, provides omega-3 fatty acids for brain health and is rich in essential minerals like zinc and selenium.
11. Almonds:
A fantastic source of Vitamin E, almonds support skin health, provide sustained energy and aid in balancing blood sugar levels.
12. Tabasco Hot Pepper Sauce:
The capsaicin in peppers boosts metabolism, aids in digestion, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
The Holistic Benefit of the Gazpacho:
When combined, these ingredients create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts. This gazpacho is a holistic nourishment bowl, promoting gut health, supporting detoxification, and providing a plethora of vitamins and minerals essential for optimal health.
RECIPE
Soup Recipe:
- 8 large very ripe tomatoes, cored
- 4 Kirby cucumbers, halved
- 1 yellow bell pepper, whole
- 1 green bell pepper, whole
- 1 orange bell pepper, whole
- 1 red bell pepper, whole
- 1 fennel bulb, quartered
- 1 small white onion, halved
- 1 shallot, halved
- 1 bulb garlic, roasted or smoked
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp sherry wine vinegar
- 1 Cara Cara orange, juiced and zested
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 10 sprigs fresh cilantro leaf and stem
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4-6 dashes of Tabasco hot pepper sauce
Garnish Recipe:
- 1 Kirby cucumber, finely diced
- 4 red cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 4 orange cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 4 yellow cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 2 tbsp toasted almonds
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Other Optional Additions:
- Feta cheese
- Toasted gluten-free bread (croutons)
- Kalamata olives
- Toasted pine nuts
Directions:
Preheat a gas or charcoal grill until very hot.
1). Take the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, fennel, onion, and shallots and coat well with 1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil.
2). Place onto grill and char evenly on all sides.
3). Remove from the grill and let cool.
4). For the bell peppers, remove the core, seeds, and veins.
5). Place grilled vegetables into a high-speed blender along with the remaining ingredients.
6). You’ll probably need to do this in 2-4 batches.
Pro Tip: Add the softer vegetables (tomatoes and peppers) to the bottom of the blender
7). Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
8). Refrigerate, ideally overnight to let the flavors mingle.
9). For the garnish combine all of the ingredients and let sit too.
10). To serve, ladle the soup into a chilled bowl and top with the garnish.
Please go ahead and enjoy this delicious and functionally nutritious recipe that you’re going to love.
Final Thoughts
Embracing this Late Summer Grilled Vegetable Gazpacho with Maryland Crab Meat is not just about savoring a delicious dish but about nourishing your body at a cellular level. Each ingredient has been chosen with intentionality, ensuring that every spoonful contributes to your holistic well-being. Enjoy this gazpacho as a testament to the power of functional nutrition and the magic it brings to our plates and our health.
Get Started On Your Journey to Wellness with Joseph at Re-Root Functional Nutrition Coaching
Looking for 1:1 coaching support to help you achieve your diet and lifestyle goals to support your sleep, then please book your free 30-minute discovery call with me today by clicking HERE.
During this call, we will:
- Uncover your story about your health challenges to date.
- Get clear on your diet and lifestyle goals to improve your health.
- Discuss how I can help you get back to feeling like your old self again.
- Share the details of my 3-Month Functional Nutrition & Lifestyle Coaching Program
- Learn about my overall coaching philosophy & what you can expect from me.
- See if we’re a good fit to work together.
- Walk away with key actionable steps to promote your wellness journey.
By the end of our conversation, you’ll feel optimistic and motivated to start making positive changes in your life.
Don’t keep putting off feeling better any longer, today’s the day to start making a difference.
Note: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not replace personalized medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional or functional nutrition coach for individualized guidance and treatment.
