All the reasons to include gazpacho in the menu

Cold soup is a great idea to include in the menu – all year round and in the summer in particular. It contains some distinct nutritional benefits, and does not burden the body. This refreshing Spanish dish, known as gazpacho, is not very popular in our small country, but it is very worthwhile to adopt it, especially in the steamy summer days. It often contains a combination of red and ripe tomatoes, pepper, Cucumber, vinegar, garlic and olive oil. Here are some good reasons to make yourself such a house.Lots of antioxidants: The gazpacho serves as a great source of strong and important antioxidants such as lycopene that comes from the tomato, vitamin c from the pepper, Allicin from the garlic and an abundance of other important antioxidants derived from the olive oil – all of these are very effective in protecting the body against various diseases.

Maintains balanced sugar values: The fiber from the vegetables and the vinegar that is usually included in the recipe can help maintain a balanced sugar level in the body.

Contributes to blood pressure balance: This soup is also a great source of potassium which is important for balancing blood pressure. The olive oil it contains also contributes to the ideal absorption of this wonderful mineral.

In summary: as a drink in a cocktail glass or as a chilled soup served in a deep bowl, with or without wholemeal bread – it doesn’t matter how you choose to eat your gazpacho, the health benefit – is all yours.

Adi Bezalel, a senior dietitian of the general in the Jerusalem district