Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 cucumber
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 small red onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: diced cucumber, croutons, chopped fresh herbs
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash all the vegetables thoroughly. Core and roughly chop the tomatoes. Peel and seed the cucumber, then chop it into chunks. Remove the seeds and stem from the red bell pepper and roughly chop it. Peel and quarter the red onion. Finally, peel the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Blend the Vegetables
In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and garlic cloves. Blend until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Season and Chill
Add the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar to the blended vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the gazpacho to chill and the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once chilled, give the gazpacho a final stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with diced cucumber, croutons, or chopped fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Tips and Variations:
- If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
- Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients such as fresh basil, cilantro, or a dash of hot sauce to customize your gazpacho.
- Gazpacho tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Now that you know how to make gazpacho, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get blending. This refreshing cold soup is perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to elegant dinner parties. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the cooling sensation of a homemade gazpacho!