Description
This authentic Spanish gazpacho is a refreshing, cold tomato-based soup made with fresh vegetables and seasoned with sherry vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Perfect for hot days, it is blended to a smooth consistency and chilled to enhance its vibrant flavors. Served garnished with finely diced green bell peppers, onions, and a drizzle of olive oil, this traditional Andalusian recipe is light, healthy, and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 10 roma tomatoes (1 kg / 2 lbs)
- 1 small green bell pepper (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 small cucumber
- 1 large clove of garlic
- Finely diced onions (for garnish)
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 tsp sherry vinegar (5 ml)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60 ml), plus extra for garnish
- 3/4 cup cold water (180 ml)
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing and patting dry the tomatoes, green bell pepper, and cucumber to ensure they are clean and ready for blending.
- Chop Tomatoes: Cut each tomato into 8 evenly sized pieces and add them to the blender to facilitate smooth blending.
- Add Bell Pepper: Cut the green bell pepper into large chunks and add them to the blender along with the tomatoes for a fresh, peppery flavor.
- Prepare Cucumber: Peel the cucumber and cut it into 1-inch thick pieces, then add them to the blender to add refreshing crispness.
- Add Garlic: Cut the large clove of garlic into 4 pieces and add to the blender to infuse subtle pungency and depth of flavor.
- Compact Ingredients: Using a large wooden spoon, press down on the ingredients inside the blender to compact them, making the blending process easier and more efficient.
- Add Seasonings and Liquids: Pour in 1 teaspoon of sherry vinegar, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 3/4 cup of cold water, and a generous pinch of fine sea salt to heighten the soup’s flavor.
- Blend: Run the blender on low speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy gazpacho base.
- Chill: Transfer the blended gazpacho into a glass pitcher, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld and chill thoroughly.
- Serve: Stir the chilled gazpacho before serving. Pour into bowls and garnish with finely diced green bell peppers, diced onions, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Enjoy your authentic Spanish gazpacho!
Notes
- For a thinner consistency, add more cold water as needed when blending.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and vinegar according to personal taste preferences.
- Gazpacho improves in flavor if made a few hours ahead and served well chilled.
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Garnishes add a nice texture contrast and should be served fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Spanish
