Introduction
Chilled tomato soup, or gazpacho, is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This cold Spanish soup is packed with ripe tomatoes and a blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and olive oil, making it both delicious and nutritious. Gazpacho is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring no cooking, and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ripe tomatoes – 2 pounds
Cucumber – 1 medium, peeled and seeded
Red bell pepper – 1, cored and seeded
Red onion – 1 small, peeled
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Olive oil – 1/4 cup
Red wine vinegar – 3 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Fresh basil or parsley – for garnish
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This quick and simple recipe for gazpacho not only captures the essence of summer but also showcases the flavors of its fresh ingredients. Perfect for a light lunch or a starter at dinner, this chilled tomato soup will surely impress your family and friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions under cold water. Cut the tomatoes into quarters, the cucumbers into chunks, and the bell peppers into strips.
Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine the quartered tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, diced onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. You may need to work in batches if your blender is not large enough.
Add the Liquid
While the blender is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil and red wine vinegar. Continue blending until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
Season the Soup
Taste the gazpacho and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or vinegar as needed. You can also add a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicy version.
Chill the Soup
Transfer the blended gazpacho to a large bowl or container. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld and the soup to chill.
Serve
After chilling, stir the gazpacho. Serve in bowls garnished with additional diced vegetables or fresh herbs like basil.
Notes
Tomatoes
Using ripe, in-season tomatoes will yield the best flavor for your gazpacho.
Texture Preference
If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve some of the chopped vegetables and stir them in after blending.
Storage
Chilled gazpacho can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customization
Feel free to customize the soup by adding your favorite ingredients, such as avocados or different herbs.
Cook techniques
Chilling the Soup
Chilling the tomato soup enhances its flavor and texture. Aim to chill it for at least two hours, allowing the ingredients to meld nicely.
Preparing the Ingredients
For the best flavor, use ripe tomatoes. Make sure to remove the skin and seeds, as this will create a smoother soup.
Blending the Soup
Use a high-speed blender to achieve a creamy consistency. Blend the ingredients until completely smooth for the best result.
Adjusting Seasoning
Taste the soup after blending and adjust seasoning according to your preference. A splash of vinegar or a pinch of salt can make a big difference.
Garnishing
Garnish with fresh herbs or croutons before serving to add texture and a burst of flavor.
FAQ
Can I make gazpacho in advance?
Yes, gazpacho can be made a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator.
What type of tomatoes is best for gazpacho?
Ripe, juicy tomatoes like heirloom or vine-ripened are ideal for making gazpacho.
Is gazpacho served warm or cold?
Gazpacho is traditionally served cold, making it a refreshing dish for hot weather.
Can I add additional vegetables?
Absolutely! Cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions can be added for extra flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover gazpacho?
Store leftover gazpacho in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
The chilled tomato soup, or gazpacho, is a refreshing and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes. Its combination of fresh vegetables and herbs creates a vibrant taste that is perfect for hot weather. This versatile recipe allows for various adaptations, ensuring a delightful experience for all who enjoy it.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Avocado Gazpacho
For a creamier version, blend ripe avocados into the mixture, adding a smooth texture and rich flavor.
Spicy Gazpacho
Incorporate jalapeños or other hot peppers to add a kick, enhancing the gazpacho’s depth and heat.
Herbed Gazpacho
Experiment with different herbs like basil or cilantro to create unique flavor profiles that complement the tomatoes.
Fruit-Infused Gazpacho
Mix in fruits such as watermelon or mango for a sweet twist on the classic recipe, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes with fruity notes.
Crab Gazpacho
Add lump crab meat to elevate the dish, providing a luxurious touch and additional protein.
Smoky Gazpacho
Incorporate smoked paprika or roasted peppers to introduce a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the other fresh ingredients.