Culture

Spicy Watermelon Gazpacho

Spicy Watermelon Gazpacho
3.6 from 5 ratings
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Gazpacho is a welcome, refreshing treat that graces many dinner tables during the summer. This version, however, puts a fresh spin on the dish with a little heat from two types of chili powder and the use of watermelon. See all watermelon recipes. Click here to see 9 Great Gazpacho Recipes to Help You Chill Out.
Servings
6
servings
Ingredients
  • 1 teaspoon pasilla chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon new mexico chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon pimentón (spanish smoked paprika)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • one 3 1/2-pound seedless watermelon, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1/2 red onion, chopped finely
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded, de-ribbed, and chopped finely
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded, de-ribbed, and chopped finely
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro, plus sprigs for garnish
  • 2 -3 limes, plus 1 slice for garnish
  • salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted, and sliced, for garnish
Directions
  1. In a small dry skillet, combine the chili powders and pimentón. Stir over medium heat until lightly toasted and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. In a small pan, combine the sugar and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved; then, bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and let cool. Put half of the watermelon in a blender and add ¼ cup of the sugar syrup. Blend until smooth and set aside. Finely chop the remaining watermelon and put in a medium-sized bowl with the onion, peppers, cilantro, and toasted spices.
  3. Grate in the zest of 1 lime. Add the watermelon purée and the juice of 2 limes; taste and add more if needed to balance the flavors. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
  4. To serve, spoon into small bowls or glasses. Garnish each serving with cilantro sprigs, avocado slices, and a slice of lime and serve.
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