This chilled Spanish gazpacho is a light and refreshing summer dish, combining the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the crispness of cucumber and bell pepper. The smooth texture is elevated with a drizzle of olive oil and a tangy kick from sherry vinegar. Perfect for those hot days when you crave something cool yet satisfying, gazpacho brings the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to make, but it’s also healthy and nutrient-dense, packed with fresh vegetables that are high in antioxidants. It makes an ideal appetizer or light meal, served chilled and garnished with fresh basil. This gazpacho is a wonderful way to enjoy a burst of summer freshness in every spoonful.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1 1/2 cups cold water
- 1 slice stale white bread, soaked and squeezed
- Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- In a blender, combine the tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
- Add the soaked bread to the blender, along with olive oil, sherry vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend again until well combined.
- Slowly add the cold water while blending to achieve your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve cold, garnished with chopped fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chill Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Little History of Gazpacho
Gazpacho dates back to ancient Roman times when people in the Iberian Peninsula were blending stale bread, garlic, and olive oil with water to create a rustic cold soup that was both filling and hydrating. This original version didn’t even include tomatoes, as they hadn’t yet made their way to Europe from the Americas. When tomatoes were introduced to Spain in the 16th century, they quickly became a key component of gazpacho, transforming it into the bright red soup we enjoy today.
The dish gained global popularity, especially as the Mediterranean diet became widely recognized for its health benefits. Gazpacho is now seen as a staple of Spanish cuisine, commonly served during the summer months when the weather is hot, and fresh, ripe tomatoes are at their peak. In Spain, you’ll often find gazpacho served as an appetizer or even as a refreshing drink, poured from a jug and sipped on warm afternoons.
Health Benefits of Gazpacho
One of the primary reasons gazpacho is so revered, aside from its incredible taste, is its nutritional profile. This dish is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of health benefits.
- Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants: The tomatoes in gazpacho are a fantastic source of vitamin C, which supports immune function, and lycopene, a potent antioxidant known for its heart-protective properties. Lycopene is also linked to skin protection against UV rays, making this dish an excellent choice during the sunny summer months.
- Hydrating and Low-Calorie: Gazpacho is primarily composed of vegetables and water, making it incredibly hydrating. It’s also very low in calories—an average serving contains about 120 calories—making it a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: The addition of extra virgin olive oil provides healthy fats that are essential for heart health. Olive oil is a key component of the Mediterranean diet and is known for reducing inflammation and lowering bad cholesterol levels.
- Digestive Benefits: The combination of raw vegetables and fiber in gazpacho aids digestion, promoting a healthy gut. The soup’s high water content also helps to flush toxins from the body, supporting kidney function and overall detoxification.
- Cooling and Refreshing: During hot summer days, it’s important to consume foods that help cool the body down. Gazpacho is served cold, making it a perfect choice to enjoy when you need something light yet filling that won’t weigh you down.
Why This Gazpacho Recipe Stands Out
This particular gazpacho recipe is ideal for its simplicity and balance of flavors. Here’s why it might just become your go-to gazpacho recipe:
- Ripe Tomatoes are the Star: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the key to a great gazpacho. Their natural sweetness balances the acidity of the sherry vinegar, while their bright red color gives the soup its iconic hue. By blending the tomatoes with other fresh vegetables like cucumbers, red bell peppers, and onions, you get a rich, full-bodied soup with multiple layers of flavor.
- Sherry Vinegar for Tanginess: Sherry vinegar adds a distinctive tangy note that elevates this gazpacho. Unlike other types of vinegar, sherry vinegar is slightly sweet, which complements the acidity of the tomatoes without overpowering the dish.
- Olive Oil for Smoothness: The use of high-quality extra virgin olive oil is a must for any authentic gazpacho. Olive oil not only enhances the flavor but also gives the soup a smooth and creamy texture without the need for any dairy or cream. This makes it an excellent option for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet.
- Easy to Customize: This recipe is also incredibly flexible. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier version, add a small jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a thicker consistency, use less water or add more bread. You can even garnish it with toppings like diced cucumber, croutons, or hard-boiled eggs to give it more texture and depth.
How to Serve Gazpacho
While gazpacho is often served as an appetizer in small bowls or cups, it can also be enjoyed as a main course on a hot day. If you’re serving it as a main dish, consider pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a more filling meal. Some people also enjoy sipping gazpacho from a glass, almost like a savory smoothie.
For a more elegant presentation, garnish your gazpacho with finely chopped herbs like fresh basil or parsley, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and perhaps a few diced vegetables to add texture. A sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the flavors even further.
If you’re hosting a gathering, serving gazpacho in shot glasses as an appetizer is a fun and unique way to start the meal. It’s a great conversation starter and will leave your guests feeling refreshed and satisfied.
Why This Gazpacho Recipe is Perfect for Summer
Summertime is when this gazpacho recipe truly shines. The abundance of fresh, ripe vegetables makes it the perfect time to whip up this dish. Not only does it make the most of summer produce, but it’s also quick to prepare and requires no cooking, so you don’t have to heat up your kitchen. It’s also an ideal dish to make in advance, as gazpacho tastes even better after it has chilled for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Moreover, gazpacho is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a light lunch, a side dish, or even a refreshing snack on a hot day. It’s also a great dish for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, as it can be transported easily and served cold straight from the fridge.
Conclusion
This gazpacho recipe encapsulates everything that’s great about summer eating—fresh, flavorful, light, and nutritious. It’s a dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a range of health benefits, from hydration to heart health. Whether you’re new to Spanish cuisine or a seasoned gazpacho lover, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your summer meal rotation. With its simple ingredients, quick preparation, and refreshing taste, this chilled soup is the ultimate way to beat the heat while enjoying the vibrant flavors of the season.
