Chilled Green Gazpacho with Roasted Zaatar Gnocchi Croutons
A vibrant cold soup that reimagines classic gazpacho with verdant vegetables like tomatillos, cucumbers, and avocado, creating a refreshing summer starter with unexpected depth. The crispy gnocchi croutons, seasoned with zaatar and chili flakes, add textural contrast and Mediterranean flair. Perfect for hot weather entertaining when you want something sophisticated yet approachable. The combination of cooling herbs and tangy tomatillos makes this version particularly bright and herbaceous compared to traditional tomato-based versions.
Ingredients
- 1 package Tuscanini Mini Gnocchicroutons1:1
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- kosher salt, to taste
- black pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons zaatardried oregano + sesame seeds1:1vegetarian
less complex flavor
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 pound hothouse cucumbers, seeds removed
- 1 pound tomatillos, husks removed and rinsedgreen tomatoes1:1vegetarian
slightly less tang
- 2 avocados, pits removed
- 1 jalapeno, seeds removed
- 1 small shallot, peeled
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- ¼ cup water
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven and spray sheet pan with nonstick spray
- 2
Toss gnocchi with olive oil, salt, pepper, zaatar and chili flakes until evenly combined
- 3
Spread gnocchi on sheet pan in even layer and roast until browned and crispy
- 4
Combine all gazpacho ingredients in large blender and blend on high until smooth
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
- 6
Chill gazpacho before serving with gnocchi croutons
Tips
Make gazpacho a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and develop deeper taste complexity.
Keep gnocchi croutons warm in low oven if serving immediately for best textural contrast with cold soup.
Reserve some herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for garnishing individual bowls before serving.
Good to Know
Refrigerate gazpacho up to 3 days. Store croutons separately at room temperature up to 2 days.
Make gazpacho 1 day ahead for best flavor. Prepare croutons morning of serving.
Serve chilled in bowls topped with warm croutons and herb garnish.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip chilling time or gazpacho won't have proper refreshing temperature contrast with warm croutons.
Avoid over-roasting gnocchi or they become too hard and lose their tender interior.
Substitutions
slightly less tang
less complex flavor
FAQ
Can I make this without the gnocchi croutons?
Yes, serve with toasted bread cubes, pumpkin seeds, or crushed tortilla chips for crunch instead.
How long does this gazpacho keep in the refrigerator?
The gazpacho stays fresh for up to 3 days when properly covered, though flavors are best within 2 days.
Can I freeze this soup for later?
Not recommended as the avocado and cucumber will change texture when frozen and thawed.