California Style Ajo Blanco - A Refreshing Summer Soup Recipe
Jaíne Mackievicz
This creamy cold soup from Andalusia, Spain, often known as "white gazpacho", charms with its nutty, garlicky flavors, achieved by blending almonds, bread, garlic, and a touch of vinegar for a subtle acidity. My California-inspired version adds cucumber for enhanced cooling qualities and a lighter texture, complemented by celery. Instead of vinegar, I use a green apple to add a balance of tartness and sweetness with a unique twist. The base is water, but almond milk can be used to intensify the almond flavor. It's delicious when simply served with a generous drizzle of olive oil, fresh grapes, or slices of cantaloupe. It can also be thickened for use as a vegetable dip. In my home, its smooth and refreshing flavors make it a standout addition to every summer menu.
Combine the almonds, cucumber, celery, apple, garlic, salt, bread, and water or almond milk in a blender and blend until smooth.
Taste and adjust if necessary.
Adjust thickness by adding more water or almond milk if needed and blend again.
Refrigerate the soup for at least 2 hours, until chilled.
Pour the chilled soup into the serving containers of choice (be creative!)
Garnish with green grapes and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
Notes
If you need help blanching the almonds...Bring a small pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the 1 cup of raw almonds to the boiling water and let them boil for about 1 minute. Do not overcook, as this can make the almonds soggy.Drain the almonds in a colander and immediately rinse them under cold running water to cool them down and stop the cooking process.Once the almonds are cool enough to handle (but don't wait too long), gently squeeze each almond between your fingers. The skin should slip off easily. Then discard the skins, and your almonds will be ready to use.