Ingredients for Gazpacho Soup
To make a classic gazpacho soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and chopped
- 1 small red onion, peeled and chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups of tomato juice (or water for a lighter version)
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 slice of day-old bread, soaked in water and squeezed dry (optional, for a thicker texture)
Optional toppings for serving:
- Chopped vegetables (cucumber, bell pepper, or tomato)
- Croutons
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley)
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.
- Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic into small pieces.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
- In a blender, combine the chopped vegetables, tomato juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the soaked bread if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Blend until smooth. If you like a chunkier texture, pulse the blender a few times instead of blending completely.
Step 3: Chill the Soup
- Transfer the blended soup to a large bowl or pitcher.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the soup is well-chilled. Gazpacho is best served cold.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Pour the chilled gazpacho into bowls or glasses.
- Garnish with your choice of toppings, such as chopped vegetables, croutons, or fresh herbs.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing flavours.
Tips for Making the Best Gazpacho
- Use ripe and fresh vegetables for the best flavour.
- Adjust the seasoning and acidity to suit your taste. Adding a bit more vinegar can enhance the tanginess.
- Strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Experiment with toppings like diced avocado, seeds, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know your favourite gazpacho variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!
