Yellow Gazpacho Cocktails with Grilled Cilantro Pesto Shrimp & Avocadoes


Serves 6

INGREDIENTS

15 medium yellow tomatoes cut into little pieces, making sure to retain liquid
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 medium cucumbers, peeled
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 teaspoon cracked pepper
1 medium red onion, finely chopped
15 shrimp, tail on and cleaned
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
¼ cup cilantro pesto, recipe below
¼ cup white wine vinegar
Avocado, for garnish

PREPARATION

Mix all ingredients except shrimp, cilantro pesto and avocado in a large mixing bowl. Take 1 cup of mixture and blend in a food processor or blender, pulsing until semi-smooth. Alternatively grind up with a mortar and pestle until desired consistency. Pour liquid back into mixing bowl and stir well. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Grill shrimp, brushing occasionally with cilantro pesto. Serve in martini glasses with 2 grilled shrimp and avocado for garnish.

Cilantro Pesto

INGREDIENTS

1 bunch fresh cilantro (approx. 1½ cups)
Juice of 4 limes
3-4 cloves fresh garlic
Juice of 1 lemon
Zest of 2 limes
1 tablespoon cumin
1 jalapeño pepper, chopped and seeded (optional)
½ cup walnut oil or olive oil
Salt, to taste

PREPARATION

In a blender, or with a handheld food processor, combine all ingredients with salt and blend until smooth.