Beet, Ginger, & Orange Gazpacho

Beets are full of antioxidants, nutrients, and fiber – plus their color is stunning. This delicious recipe is super simple because all you have to do is put everything in a blender – no messy or lengthy boiling or roasting the beets required! Pair with some chicken, beans, or canned fish on the side plus some seeded crackers and you’ve got an instant meal. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

12 ounces pre-cooked beets, canned or vacuum sealed, drained

1 cup chopped peeled coarsely and chopped onion or shallot

1 Tbsp ginger, peeled and finely chopped (or grated on a microplane)

3 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped

Juice from one half of an orange

1.5 cups vegetable or chicken broth

3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1 Tbsp balsamic or red wine vinegar

½ tsp salt, or to taste

½ tsp white or black ground pepper

Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper

Crème fraiche or Greek yogurt plus chopped fresh parsley to garnish

Directions:

1. Place all ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
2. Optional: Strain half of the mixture through a strainer then combine with the remaining soup.
3. If time allows, chill to cool and allow the flavors to blend before serving.