Juniper's Peach Gazpacho

Southern Living Off the Eaten Path Second Helpings, p. 192

1 Tbsp. black sesame seeds

1 Tbsp. sesame seeds

½ (11 oz.) can mandarin oranges in light syrup

2 cups vegetable juice

2 cups diced peaches

1 ½ cups diced seedless cucumber

¾ cup diced tomato

½ cup diced red bell pepper

½ cup diced green bell pepper

1 Tbsp. sugar

3 Tbsp. minced red onion

1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar

1 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro

½ tsp. fine sea salt

¼ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

1 garlic clove, minced

Head sesame seeds in a small nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring often, 2 to 3 minutes or until toasted and fragrant.

Drain and chop mandarin oranges, reserving ¼ cup light syrup. Stir together sesame seeds, chopped oranges, light syrup, and remaining ingredients in a large bowl. 

Yummmmm peaches!

Cover and chill at least 30 minutes. Serve in small chilled bowls.

Served with some nice rye bread and butter.

My Rating: 4/5 "A refreshing take on gazpacho that makes it even MORE summery and refreshing! All the ingredients fit together seamlessly. I might wanted a bit more 'broth' because it felt chunky, but they were such delicious bits!"